Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: East Gardens of the Imperial Palace & Asakusa

    Tokyo in Half a Day: East Gardens of the Imperial Palace & Asakusa

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at Nezu Station and Nezu Shrine
    • 10:20 East Gardens of the Imperial Palace
    • 11:30 Asakusa
    • 13:20 Tour ends at Asakusa

    Title: What Is a 4-Hour Private Walking Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Body: [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide led a 4-hour private walking tour of Tokyo, setting the route based on the guests' requests and keeping to schedule. Although it rained from the morning, Nezu Shrine in the rain was actually quieter with fewer visitors, which made for a lovely, tranquil atmosphere. The final stop was Asakusa, where the Sanja Matsuri festival happened to be taking place, and the guests were delighted and felt lucky to watch the procession of the portable shrines (mikoshi). However, partway through the wind and rain became quite intense, which made things challenging. Since it was a 4-hour tour, I asked the guests where they would like to have lunch, and as they wished for conveyor-belt sushi, I took them to a Sushiro in Asakusa, ending the tour when they were called to their seats.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwaySendagi～Otemachi (Tokyo)178JPY
    Section 2SubwayOtemachi (Tokyo)～Asakusa178JPY
    Total356JPY

    Tour Report by Takeshi

    Welcome to Japan!
    My name is Takeshi Yamada, a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter based in the vibrant city of Yokohama, Kanagawa.
    Born and raised in Minamiuonuma City, Niigata Prefecture, renowned for its exquisite rice and sake, I deeply appreciate Japan’s culinary delights. I love sharing laughs, exploring diverse cultures and histories, and playing tennis.
    I specialize in guiding tours around Yokohama, Kamakura, Fuji-Hakone, Tokyo, and the surrounding Kanto areas. With years of experience in multinational corporations, I excel in English communication and making foreign visitors feel at home.
    Whether you’re interested in historical landmarks, authentic cultural experiences, savoring Japanese cuisine, enjoying lively Izakaya spots, or soaking in urban energy, my tours are tailored to your interests. I am committed to providing exceptional service, ensuring each guest receives personalized attention and creates unforgettable memories.
    My greatest joy is seeing my guests fall in love with Japan, taking home cherished memories and a deeper understanding of this beautiful country.
    I look forward to meeting you and being your friendly, knowledgeable guide.

    See you soon!

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    Jun 5, 2026
    cathywB8167WE
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide from Yokohama
    Great 8 hour tour of Tokyo
    Takeshi was great with…

    May 13, 2026
    Kim_T
    Viator review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide from Yokohama
    Experience Tokyo like a local…,
    It was a wonderful way…

    May 11, 2026
    Trenee_J
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Takeshi did an amazing…
    Takeshi did an amazing job helping us plan…

    Apr 17, 2026
    Dianne_L
    Viator review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide from Yokohama
    Takeshi was our guide. He…
    Takeshi was our guide. He…

  • Kochi Shore Excursion: Customized Car Tour

    Kochi Shore Excursion: Customized Car Tour

    Kochi Shore Excursion: Customized Car Tour, Licensed Guide

    August, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:50 Port -9:10 Arrive at Katsurahama, stroll around 9:50 Depart Katsurahama
    • 10:25 Arrive at Kochi Castle ~ Kochi Castle Museum of History ~ Hirome Market ~ stroll around Obiyamachi 13:15 Depart Obiyamachi -13:40 Arrive at Uniqlo Tosa Road Store 14:10 Depart 14:50 Arrive at Kochi New Port

    Title: What's a Private Day Tour of Kochi Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Katsurahama, Kochi Castle, and Hirome Market The tour started at Katsurahama Beach. I had been told in advance that walking might be difficult for the guests, but since they had also gone sightseeing on foot at their previous stops in Osaka and Nara, we proceeded. As walking was a little unsteady for one of the guests, they took a rest near the statue of Ryoma while the other went to see the beach. At Kochi Castle as well, only one of the guests climbed up to the castle keep. At the Kochi Castle Museum of History, they viewed the castle from the second floor, and then shopped for coffee beans and matcha in the Obiyamachi district. The guests followed a strict vegetarian diet, so I was a little concerned, but at Hirome Market they enjoyed edamame, chilled tofu (without dried bonito flakes), and part of a plate of inaka-zushi. During our stroll through Obiyamachi, the guests expressed a wish to visit a Uniqlo, so we made an impromptu stop there. Prices seemed much lower than back home, and they did some shopping, including souvenirs. When I asked which part of the day's sightseeing they had enjoyed most, one of the guests said Kochi Castle, and the other said Uniqlo. We returned to the port before 3:00 and said our goodbyes.

    Click here for more details: Kochi Shore Excursion: Customized Car Tour, Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Mina

    Hello from Kochi! My name is Mina, and I was born and raised here in this beautiful prefecture. I have over 30 years of experience in international exchange, and I have hosted many guests from more than 10 countries. I love traveling and meeting people from all over the world!
    As a local housewife, I would love to show you the ‘real’ Japanese lifestyle. I can guide you through our wonderful food culture. I also have a knowledge of traditional arts such as Kimono dressing, Tea ceremony, Flower arrangement, and Calligraphy. I focus on warm hospitality to make every guest feel at home. Please feel free to tell me what you would like to see or what you are interested in. I will do my best to help you have a wonderful and memorable trip in Kochi. I am truly looking forward to meeting you.

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  • Sapporo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Sapporo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Sapporo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 9:50 Meet up@Hotel
    • 2. 10:00 Former Hokkaido Government Office
    • 3. 10:25 Odori Park
    • 4. 11:15 Okurayama Ski Jump Stadium
    • 5. 12:30 Lunch@Picante (Soup Curry Restaurant)
    • 6. 13:50 Shiroi Koibito Park
    • 7. 15:25 Sapporo Beer Museum
    • 8. 16:00 Disband@Hotel

    At Odori Park, a lilac festival was being held that day, and I guided the tour centering on the festival grounds. With many food stalls set up, the area was very lively. The guests liked it very much and mentioned they would visit again after the tour ended. That same day, at the Okurayama Ski Jump Stadium we visited afterward, there was also a large event called "Red Bull 400." As a result, there were a great many people, but in addition to the bus that normally runs only once an hour, shuttle buses were departing every 15 minutes, which was a great help and meant we did not need to use a taxi. The event, in which participants dashed up the slope of the ski jump stadium, was being held, and the guests greatly enjoyed watching it.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayOdori Park Station～Maruyama Koen Station210JPY
    Section 2SubwayMaruyama Koen Station～Miyanosawa Station250JPY
    Section 3SubwayMiyanosawa Station～Odori Park Station290JPY
    Total750JPY

    Tour Report by Tom

    I was born and raised in Hokkaido and have been a resident of Sapporo for over 30 years. I have been actively involved in guiding tourists around the scenic spots of Hokkaido, primarily focusing on Sapporo. Even before becoming a licensed interpreter guide, I engaged in volunteer activities to assist and guide foreigners, providing me with valuable opportunities to delve into the rich culture and history of Hokkaido.
    Hokkaido is renowned for its exceptional culinary scene, and I am well-versed in gourmet information. I believe I can offer an excellent experience by guiding individuals through the highly acclaimed food experiences that Hokkaido has to offer.

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    Aug 15, 2026
    I654RPsandib
    Great experience
    Tripadvisor review: Sapporo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We thoroughly enjoyed our 6 hours touring Sapporo with…

    Apr 22, 2026
    Agent PT A
    Tripadvisor review: Sapporo 6hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Super Sapporo in April with Tom.
    Tom was kind…

    Feb 10, 2026
    Alan_C
    Very enjoyable and well…
    Viator review: Sapporo 6hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Very enjoyable and well worth it. Our…

    Sep 24, 2025
    saratW9816BN
    Tour up to the Moiwa mountain and lots more
    Tripadvisor review: Sapporo 6hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    We’ve had…

  • 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

    • 9:55 AM: Meet at the main lobby of Hotel Premier Grand. Two guests, Mr. Timothy and his wife Ms. Sonia. They arrived in Japan from Perth yesterday afternoon.
    • Discussed the day's itinerary. Asked about their lunch preferences, and since they wanted to spend more time on purchasing a sword (not a real one) and shopping, we decided to cut the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace and the Tsukiji Outer Market, and go with Nihonbashi/Ginza ⇒⇒ Omotesando/Harajuku ⇒ Shinjuku.
    • 10:15 AM: From Shinjuku Station, took the Marunouchi Line and Ginza Line to Nihonbashi Mitsukoshimae.
    • 10:40 AM–12:40 PM: Shopping from Nihonbashi to Ginza. They made purchases at Kiya, Kyukyodo, and DIOR respectively.
    • 12:45 PM–1:50 PM: Teppanyaki lunch at "Kaika" on the 4th floor of the Kojun Building.
    • At dessert time, they said they didn't need to do shopping in Omotesando today, and after buying the sword they wished to return to Shinjuku.
    • After that, we walked to Shimbashi and took the subway to Toranomon. Along the way, at the Mister Minute inside Shimbashi Station, we repaired the heel of the wife's sandal (which she had in her backpack) that broke at the airport yesterday.
    • 2:40 PM: Arrived at "Nihon Token" in Toranomon. After consulting with his wife, he purchased one short sword (a replica sword) and took it home himself.
    • Hibiya Line: Toranomon Hills ⇒ Ebisu ⇒ Shinjuku, back to the hotel.
    • 3:50 PM: When we reached the passage heading from the West Exit of Shinjuku Station toward the Metropolitan Government Building (near Kogakuin University), they said, "Once we've come this far, we know the way, so we'll be fine."
    • Since they also mentioned that they had strolled around the West Exit last night and eaten ramen, I politely thanked them and ended the tour.

    What Is a Private Shopping and Dining Tour in Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Oceania. They spoke proudly of their family, and it was clear they were very fond of them. At a knife shop in Nihonbashi, the guests realized they had forgotten to bring their passport. For the purchase of an iron kettle and a small blade, they decided they were fine without the 10% tax exemption. On the other hand, at a designer boutique, they arranged to bring the passport again the next day and receive the items at the tax-free price. Since one of the guests was wearing that brand's clothing that day, I believe the staff escorting them and the shop made this accommodation out of consideration. At the lunch venue, the guests were full of praise, saying it was wonderful again and again. They had a flood of questions not only about the food but even about the chef's career. That said, a couple of pieces were left uneaten. They had mentioned they usually skip breakfast and have a salad-centered lunch, so the portion may have been a little large. Some of the pickled daikon remained, but the miso soup bowl was empty.

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

    Tour Report by Taichi

    Discover the Heart of Japan: A Journey Through Culture, History, and Flavor.

    Hello, I am Taichi, a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter.
    Having explored the depth and diversity of Japan’s culture, history, and cuisine-particularly in the vibrant regions of Tokyo and Kansai-I’m excited to share my experiences with you.

    With its dynamic seasonal changes and centuries-old traditions, with its ever-changing seasons and profound history, Japan invites you to create moments that stir your imagination and awaken a deeper connection to its beauty.

    And Japan is more than just a destination-its travel experience engages your all five senses.
    From breathtaking landscapes to tantalizing culinary, every corner holds something to delight and inspire.

    Let’s embark journey of discovery, where you’ll sharpen your sense, create unforgettable memory, and embrace the true essence of Japan.
    I look forward to helping your wonderful trip.

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    Apr 7, 2026
    Karistan_S
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Taichi was wonderful. He…
    Taichi was wonderful. He…

    May 15, 2025
    TJP1967
    Perfect Guide…..Taichi-sun
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Hello. Taichi-sun was absolutely amazing. There was nothing he wouldn’t…

    Apr 14, 2025
    rgp728
    Wonderful Tour of Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We used Japan Guide Agency for a private…

    Apr 8, 2025
    Sherif_A
    Taichi-san is an amazing guide!
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    This was our 1 day trip to…

  • Tokyo: Tokyo National Museum & Meidi-ya Roppongi

    Tokyo: Tokyo National Museum & Meidi-ya Roppongi

    Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet @ANA InterContinental
    • 9:45 Tokyo National Museum
    • 12:00 Nihonbashi Mitsukoshi
    • 12:30 Lunch @Tokyo Gyoza-ro COREDO Muromachi 2
    • 13:00 Muromachi ~ Nihonbashi
    • 13:45 Imperial Palace East Gardens (Ninomaru Garden only)
    • 15:00 Omotesando
    • 16:30 Meidi-ya Roppongi
    • 17:00 Disband @Roppongi Hills Mori Tower Observation Deck Entrance

    What Is a Private Rainy-Day Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Ueno and Ginza The guests were visitors from North America who arrived in Tokyo after a 30-day cruise from Southeast Asia. Since it had come to light just beforehand that their cruise group would be visiting Meiji Shrine and Asakusa, we arranged the itinerary above, which turned out to be the right choice given the weather. Everyone had the same idea, so there was a long line at the Tokyo National Museum, but the guests were exempt from the admission fee and entered smoothly from the side. We explored the Tokyo National Museum thoroughly, so time ran short and we limited Mitsukoshi to just the basement floor, but the guests were delighted by the department store food hall. Around this time the rain and wind grew fierce and umbrellas were useless, leaving us soaked. Since the guests wanted to see a Japanese supermarket, I guided them to Meidi-ya. When I met the guests in the morning, they said, "Today I want to hear honest answers to my questions." I was asked about post-war Japanese feelings toward North America and the necessity of nuclear weapons (they had visited Hiroshima and Nagasaki before Tokyo), and I explained that my principle is not to say things that can be found on Google or ChatGPT, while offering my own opinions with the caveat that they were personal views.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayGinza Line Tameike-sanno～Ginza Line Ueno209JPY
    Section 2SubwayGinza Line Ueno～Ginza Line Mitsukoshimae178JPY
    Section 3SubwayTozai Line Nihonbashi～Tozai Line Otemachi178JPY
    Section 4SubwayChiyoda Line Otemachi～Chiyoda Line Omotesando178JPY
    Section 5SubwayGinza Line Omotesando～Oedo Line Roppongi178JPY
    Total921JPY

    Tour Report by Hideki

    Hello! My name is Hideki Maruyama. I was born in Osaka and raised in the Greater Tokyo area. I obtained my National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter Certificate in February 2016.
    I spent 23 years working at a leading Japanese automotive company, including 7 years posted overseas. I then worked for a German premium automotive manufacturer for 13 years, followed by 6 years as an advisor to a British energy company. Through these roles at global corporations, I developed and refined key skills such as:
    1. Cross-cultural communication
    2. A deep understanding of business elites and affluent customers
    3. The ability to deliver impactful and impressive presentations in English
    In addition to my regular duties, I often served as an interpreter for top executives during meetings with foreign government officials. I also had opportunities to introduce aspects of Japan—such as our national character and consumer preferences—to leadership teams in both the German and British companies.
    As a tour guide, I’ve had the pleasure of guiding guests from a wide range of countries especially after the pandemic, including the US, UK, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, Belgium, Switzerland, Austria, Ireland, Norway, Sweden, Romania, Slovenia, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, India, Hong Kong, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Brazil, Argentina, Columbia, Thailand, Malaysia, the Philippines, Laos, Turkey, Jordan, Kenya and Israel.
    When guiding, I always keep in mind to go beyond what guests can find on social media or ChatGPT. I believe my professional background allows me to offer unique insights, and I am encouraged when guests mention this in their reviews

    Request Booking

    Jun 14, 2026
    tiffany_w
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Phenomenal experiance
    Hideki san was an amazing guide. He was incredibly knowledgable…

    Jun 13, 2026
    Joshua_A
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    The Best Guide I Had in Japan
    Hideki was, without question, my…

    May 2, 2026
    Bruce G
    Our guide (Hideki san) was a master. It was a rainy day and he suggested a new plan in anticipation…

    Apr 30, 2026
    johnbD9596UO
    Lovely Private tour of Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    My wife and I had a great…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Tsukiji Outer Market & Ginza

    Tokyo in One Day: Tsukiji Outer Market & Ginza

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:30　Leave the hotel
    • 10:40　Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 11:00　～11:30　From Tsukiji to Nezu Shrine (Hibiya Line "Higashi-ginza" → transfer at "Ueno" → get off at Chiyoda Line "Nezu"
    • 11:30　～12:00　Nezu Shrine
    • 12:00～12:30　(Move from Nezu to Asakusa)
    • Chiyoda Line "Nezu" → transfer at "Hibiya" → Ginza Line "Asakusa"
    • 12:30～13:10　Asakusa sightseeing　Sanja Festival
    • 13:20　Lunch at Sushi Ken　03-5246-0547
    • 14:40　～15:20　Move from Asakusa to Ginza
    • Ginza Line "Asakusa" → "Shimbashi" then Yamanote Line to "Shinjuku" 10-minute walk
    • 15:30～16:10　Stroll around Ginza
    • 16:300　Return to the hotel

    Title: What Is a Rainy-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tsukiji, Nezu Shrine, and Asakusa's Sanja Matsuri The day began with heavy rain. The guests changed into rain ponchos and did not seem bothered by the downpour at all. At Tsukiji Market, I introduced its history and recommended shops. The guests had already eaten a full breakfast, so they looked around the shops that day and planned to return the next morning. Nezu Shrine also had almost no visitors because of the heavy rain. Since it was quiet, I took my time explaining its history and spoke about Japanese religion, including honji suijaku. After taking commemorative photos, we headed to Asakusa. This was the main destination of the day, where the guests experienced the Sanja Matsuri. Once we entered the approach to the shrine, it became impossible to move, so we watched the portable shrines (mikoshi) from nearby. The guests were truly delighted to experience a Japanese festival.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHigashi-ginza～Nezu178JPY
    Section 2TrainNezu～Asakusa356JPY
    Section 3TrainAsakusa～Ginza209JPY
    Total743JPY

    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…

  • 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

    • 9:30 Hotel — 10:00-11:00 Asakusa — 11:30-13:00 Nippori~Sendagi (including lunch) 13:30-14:30 Meiji Shrine — 14:30-15:00 Omotesando (shopping at Onitsuka Tiger) — 15:00-15:30 Shibuya, disband at Mega Don Quijote

    What Can You See on a Private Tokyo Day Tour of Asakusa, Yanaka, Harajuku, and Shibuya? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. At Nakamise, they enjoyed buying and sampling cold matcha and traditional Japanese sweets. In Yanaka, they purchased custard manju at a local sweets shop and had shio ramen for lunch at a ramen restaurant. They mentioned that the ramen tasted different from what they were used to, since the ramen they knew was miso ramen. At a traditional paper shop, they bought chiyogami paper as a souvenir. At Meiji Shrine, they drew omikuji fortunes, and on Takeshita Street they were intrigued by a micro pig cafe. At the flagship store of a well-known sneaker brand on Omotesando, one of the guests purchased sneakers as planned. It was very crowded and took some time. At the Shibuya Scramble Crossing, I was asked why it gets so busy, and I explained that many subway lines run beneath the area so people pour out from underground, and that because Shibuya sits in a valley, people gather from all directions. Since we had a little time left, I took them to a large discount store, which suited their interests. They said they would enjoy shopping there on their own, and we parted ways at the scheduled time of 15:30.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayWaseda (Tokyo Metro)～Asakusa209JPY
    Section 2SubwayAsakusa～Ueno178JPY
    Section 3TrainUeno～Nippori146JPY
    Section 4SubwaySendagi～Meiji-jingumae252JPY
    Section 5SubwayMeiji-jingumae～Shibuya178JPY
    Total963JPY

    Tour Report by Lance

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

    Request Booking

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

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

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

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

  • Hyogo in One Day: Osaka Castle & Umeda Sky Building

    Hyogo in One Day: Osaka Castle & Umeda Sky Building

    Osaka in 1 Day from Kobe by Private Car with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Meet @ Hotel Okura Kobe
    • 10:15 @ Osaka Castle (exterior only)
    • 11:45 @ Dotonbori (including lunch)
    • 13:00 @ Hozenji Temple
    • 14:00 @ Umeda Sky Building
    • 16:30 Disband @ Hotel Okura Kobe

    What Is a Private Osaka Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Osaka Castle, Dotonbori, and Umeda Sky Building The guests were a group visiting from Oceania. During our visit to Osaka Castle we were caught in quite heavy rain, but perhaps because of the poor weather, the crowds at each spot were smaller than usual for a Saturday, and the expressway from Kobe was also smooth, so we were able to move ahead of schedule by a wide margin. Although Osaka Castle was viewed only from the outside, the guests purchased a variety of souvenirs at the adjacent souvenir shop. In Dotonbori, they were very interested in and enjoyed the "Glico Man," "Billiken," and the large monitors. As they wished to try "okonomiyaki" for lunch, I guided them to a recommended restaurant and helped them place their order. One of the guests followed a gluten-free diet and had a salad instead. After that, they purchased the popular soft-serve ice cream known for its performance and greatly enjoyed it. (For the guest on a gluten-free diet, it was specially served in a cup.) The Umeda Sky Building was somewhat crowded and we waited about 15 minutes for the elevator, but after that we were able to tour smoothly. Here too, they purchased many souvenirs. The expressway on the way back was also uncrowded and very smooth. We were able to move more smoothly than planned and returned to the hotel early, but as they needed to prepare to board a cruise ship from Kobe Port the next day, we parted with about 30 minutes to spare. Incidentally, I am also scheduled to lead the "Kobe Tour" the next day. Today's driver was also very courteous in both manner and driving.

    Click here for more details: Osaka in 1 Day from Kobe by Private Car with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Yama

    Dear my guests,

    This is (Mr.) Yama, greeting from Kobe, Japan.
    I would like to warmly welcome you to Japan this time. I am from the city of Kobe, which is of course, well-known for very tasty Kobe Beef . You can taste
    real genuine Kobe Beef here. Kobe is also called “Home of Japanese Sake” with lots of Sake breweries, and I recommend you would visit those breweries
    if you have any interest in Japanese Sake as well as one aspect of Japanese cultures. Of course, you can have tastings of various kinds of Sake there.

    Whenever during the tour, I always try to make it safe, pleasant and comfortable for all of the guests, which is my first priority. I am very much confident
    that you can have a pleasant and unforgettable experience in Japan. Just tell me about your preference; what you would like to like to see, have, know
    and eat and so on. Particularly, I hold the license for cooking qualified by the government here and maybe, I can reply you for questions related to the
    foods here. In this respect, I strongly recommend you would try not only famous Japanese cuisine such as Sushi, Tempura or Suki-yaki but some
    Japanese traditional local foods, like Tako-yaki, Okonomi-yaki and Kushkatsu. They are sometimes called the soul foods of Japan. Here is the brief
    explanation for these three foods.

    1) Tako-yaki
    Tako-yaki is a snack filled with pieces of octopus in a batter of flour , egg and soup stock. You can call them octopus dumplings or balls. “Tako” means
    octopus and “yaki” means grilled or broiled.
    2) Okonomi-yaki
    This word Okonomi-yaki means “cook just as you like” and you can use whatever you like as toppings, such as beef, pork, shrimp, squid and octopus.
    Okonomi-yaki is round shape and just like pancakes or pizza in shape mainly made from egg, flour and water.
    3) Kushi-katsu
    Kushi-katsu is skewered cutlet or deep-fried foods on a stick. “Kushi” means skewer and “katsu” means cutlet. Various kinds of foods are used for
    ingredients such as beef, pork, chicken, shrimp, squid, octopus and lots of kinds of vegetables.

    Actually, the western Japan including Osaka, Kobe and Himeji is called as “Home of such local soul foods”. You should give it a try and I am sure
    that you like them very much.

    I sincerely hope that I can be your tour guide this time in Kobe, Osaka and Himeji. If my guests said to me after the tour, “I have had a very good
    and pleasant time with you today. I hope I can come here again and name you as our guide”, which is my great pleasure. Moreover, I would be
    great honored if they say “I like Japan now thanks to you”.

    Looking forward to meeting you soon here.
    Doomo Arigato Gozaimasu!
    Yama

    Request Booking

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

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

    Jul 25, 2026
    Hdixjdixj
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Local Food & Culture Tour in 1 Day, Licensed Guide
    Amazing Food Tour through Osaka
    We were taken…

    Jul 20, 2026
    Eric_W
    Viator review: Himeji Castle & Koko-en in 1 Day Tour with Licensed Guide
    Castle journey worth your time!
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  • Kyoto: Naramachi & Todaiji Great Buddha Hall

    Kyoto: Naramachi & Todaiji Great Buddha Hall

    Nara Day Trip from Kyoto: Customized Tour, Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet up @The Westin Miyako Kyoto
    • 11:42 Naramachi stroll
    • 12:20 Lunch
    • 13:30 Yoshikien
    • 14:20 Todaiji Great Buddha Hall
    • 17:00 Disband @Hotel Mastay

    Can You Do a Private Day Trip to Nara in the Rain? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from North America. Since the group's makeup was similar in age to my own family, the conversation flowed easily from the start. It rained heavily from the morning, which made outdoor activities a challenge, but the very first thing the guests told me was that they wanted to do a sake tasting, so I took them to Imanishi Seibei Shoten first. After that, following their wish to explore Naramachi, we walked around the area, but as the rain showed no sign of letting up, we had an early lunch. After lunch the rain had almost stopped, and the guests enjoyed feeding the deer in Nara Park while being playfully mobbed by them, then visited the Great Buddha Hall before heading back. During our prior communication, the guests had requested to finish around 17:00 because they had dinner plans, so I arranged the tour accordingly.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKeage～Takeda290JPY
    Section 2TrainTakeda～Kintetsu Nara1,520JPY
    Section 3BusKintetsu Nara Station～Fukuchiin-cho250JPY
    Section 4BusTodaiji Great Buddha Hall/Museum-mae～Kintetsu Nara Station250JPY
    Section 5SubwayTakeda～Higashiyama290JPY
    Total2,600JPY

    Tour Report by Hiro

    Thanks for joining our tour. I’m Hiro Nakagawa, assigned to be your guide for this tour. I was eligible as a National Licensed Tour Guide in 2017. I have guided many tourists from overseas since then. Japan is a beautiful country with full of various attractions. Please enjoy your time in this country to the fullest. I will help you with that. What are you interested in this country? I will introduce this country’s long history, traditional culture, beautiful seasonal highlights, and delicious food to you. Please let me know your preferences. If it’s other than which I mentioned, I’m preparing it for you as much as possible. Let’s enjoy the trip together!

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    Jul 13, 2025
    H2enjoy
    Wonderful Day Trip to Mt. Koya from the Osaka Cruise Terminal
    Tripadvisor review: Mt. Koya Sacred Full-Day Private Tour (Osaka departure)…

    Jun 20, 2025
    zoranm709
    Kyoto great tour experience.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Enjoyed the sites we were taken. Hiro was…

    Jun 18, 2025
    Adventurer310309
    Cool surprises on our Osaka and Kyoto tours with Hiro.
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    My wife…

    May 26, 2025
    SK G
    Excellent tour
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 6hr Private Walking Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Mr. Hiro provided an excellent experience. Personable…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa & Shinjuku Gyoen

    Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa & Shinjuku Gyoen

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meet at Hotel Tokyo Ginza
    • 10:10 Asakusa (Skytree photo)
    • 12:10 Meiji Shrine
    • 13:00 From Harajuku Takeshita Street to Cat Street
    • 14:00 Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • 14:35 Shinjuku Gyoen
    • 15:30 Disband at Shinjuku Gyoen

    What Does a Private Walking Tour of Tokyo Look Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Meiji Shrine, and Shinjuku Gyoen The weather was fairly good with no rain at all, so the tour proceeded smoothly. In Asakusa, the guests seemed to have several things they wanted to try, searching out and enjoying manju topped with strawberries and soft-serve ice cream. They enjoyed drawing omikuji fortunes. The festival had not yet begun, but there were many people around. A mikoshi portable shrine used for the festival was on display, so I explained it to them. At Meiji Shrine, they enjoyed the beautiful greenery. On Takeshita Street, they ate rainbow bread and cheese dogs that are popular on social media, and had a great time. I guided them to Cat Street, but since it did not seem to be featured on social media, the reaction was somewhat muted. After guiding them to the scramble crossing, at Shinjuku Gyoen I focused on showing them the Japanese garden and the rose garden, and we finished in front of the Greenhouse. The guests said they enjoyed the tour, and I received a tip.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainGinza～Asakusa700JPY
    Section 2TrainAsakusa～Meiji-jingumae0JPY
    Section 3TrainShibuya～Shinjuku-sanchome0JPY
    Total700JPY

    Tour Report by Koba

    My name is Eiji Kobayashi (Mr.), and I will be your guide during your stay in Tokyo.
    Please call me Koba.
    Allow me to introduce myself. I am a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter of Japan and an expert in Japanese history and culture, and also in nursing and health. I usually work as a Public Health Nurse (PHN) at a Public Health Center in Tokyo, and I hold a Registered Nurse (RN) license. Additionally, I have a Ph.D. in medical science.
    Born in 1957 and raised in Tokyo, I have worked for 33 years mainly in the research and development area for some pharmaceutical companies. Then, I changed my career to nursing and entered a university to obtain a PHN and RN license. I took the Licensed Guide for preparation for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and volunteered in the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2021.

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    Jul 21, 2026
    scottsD8777AR
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Great Touring Tokyo
    Koba is an excellent tour guide. We greatly…

    Jul 9, 2026
    Quest36994121691
    First visit to Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    This was our first visit…

    Jul 8, 2026
    Χρονης Π
    A beautiful tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    It was a perfect experience…

    Jul 5, 2026
    I3699SBjonathanw
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    6hr Tokyo guide great experience
    Koba was so nice to my family…