Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa & Ueno Park

    Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa & Ueno Park

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:20 Meet @ Prince Park Tower
    • 10:50 Tsukiji Outer Market ~ Kabukiza Theatre
    • 12:15 Asakusa (Kaminarimon ~ Nakamise ~ Sensoji Temple)
    • 13:15 Ueno Park (Sakura Street ~ Shinobazu Pond)
    • 15:00 Meiji Shrine & Lunch @ Forest Terrace Meiji Jingu
    • 16:30 Disband @ Prince Park Tower

    Title: What's a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like on a Rainy Spring Day? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. They were traveling in Japan on an incentive trip and today spent the day on their own, separate from the larger group. Although we had agreed on the itinerary before their arrival, rain had already begun at Tsukiji and continued at Asakusa, so for cherry blossom viewing I changed our plan from Chidorigafuchi, where the walking path is narrow and difficult to navigate with umbrellas, to Ueno Park. We were met with rain and sudden gusts of wind at Ueno as well, but choosing the spacious Ueno Park turned out to be the right decision. At Tsukiji, the guests enjoyed a tasting comparison of different cuts of tuna, and at Asakusa they purchased a paper fan as a souvenir, though it was crowded again today so we finished up quickly and moved on to Ueno Park. At Meiji Shrine, I took many photos for the guests in front of the sacred camphor trees. As luck would have it, a long procession for a traditional Shinto wedding passed by, and since the bride happened to be from overseas, it made for a wonderful attraction (?). The guests were very warm and affectionate with each other, and it was a pleasure to guide them.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayOedo Line Akabanebashi~Oedo Line Tsukijishijo178JPY
    Section 2SubwayAsakusa Line Higashi-ginza~Asakusa Line Asakusa220JPY
    Section 3SubwayGinza Line Asakusa~Ginza Line Ueno178JPY
    Section 4TrainJR Ueno~JR Harajuku208JPY
    Section 5TrainJR Harajuku~Mita Line Shibakoen387JPY
    Total1,171JPY

    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, Norway, 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

    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 Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Meet at Hotel→8:00-8:30 Walk to the Imperial Palace East Gardens (security was extremely tight)→8:30-9:30 Stroll through the East Gardens→9:30-9:50 Move to Tsukiji→9:50-10:40 Stroll through Tsukiji Outer Market→10:40-11:30 Sushi lunch→11:30-11:50 Move to Shibuya→11:50-12:30 Visit Shibuya's Hachiko and the Crossing (disband)

    What Can You See on a Private Tokyo Day Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report on the Imperial Palace, Tsukiji, and Shibuya Crossing The meeting was a success as planned. The guests were a group visiting from Europe who were staying at a hotel in Yokohama and were in the middle of a cruise visiting major cities in Japan. They were very friendly and easy to be with. We first visited the Imperial Palace, but security was unusually strict, so we could not enter through the Otemon Gate and had our belongings inspected twice. The guests did not mind at all and cooperated without complaint. The cherry blossoms were in full bloom at the Imperial Palace, so I took many photos for them. Next we visited Tsukiji, where they bought skewers of Kobe wagyu beef and sampled them together. They were thrilled, saying it was unbelievably juicy and tender and that they had never eaten such delicious beef. Since I had made a reservation at the sushi restaurant, we were able to enter without waiting, and they enjoyed rice bowls and California rolls. They were very satisfied, saying that the fish was fresh but the taste of the vinegared rice was exquisite. Finally, we visited Shibuya Crossing, and since you could see the crossing clearly from above the station, they filmed a video, then actually crossed and took photos. At the end, we took a selfie all together and parted ways in a warm and friendly atmosphere.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayOtemachi~Tsukiji178JPY
    Section 2SubwayTsukiji~Shibuya209JPY
    Total387JPY

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

    Oct 14, 2025
    Randi R
    Amazing tour of Tokyo with Yuji
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Yuji was an amazing guide.…

    Sep 30, 2025
    K6530TRangelor
    Great tour.
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our guide Yuji was excellent. He was very punctual and…

    Sep 19, 2025
    belindaf2022
    Tokyo highlights
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a wonderful day with being shown the key…

    Sep 8, 2025
    S8908ADcarolinab
    Family friendly guide
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a great experience with our 6 hour…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 0800 HOTEL INTERCONTINENTAL TOKYO BAY (directly connected to Yurikamome Takeshiba Station)
    • 0840 Shibuya, Hachiko statue, Scramble Crossing
    • 0910 Harajuku, visit to Meiji Shrine, Takeshita Street
    • 1100 Kokyo Gaien National Garden, Tatsumi Yagura, Gyoko-dori, Marunouchi, Tokyo Station
    • 1215 Ginza, lunch at the underground food court of Sukiyabashi Tokyu Plaza, Ginza 4-chome intersection
    • 1305 Asakusa, Nakamise, Senso-ji Temple, Asakusa Shrine, the rain got stronger so we headed back
    • 1430 Since it was also on my way back, we stayed together until buying tickets at the Yurikamome station of Shimbashi Station, then parted ways

    What's a Full-Day Private Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Meiji Shrine, the Imperial Palace, Ginza, and Asakusa The guests came from Oceania. They arrived in Japan on March 21, boarded a cruise ship, and traveled around Osaka, Hiroshima, Kyushu, Busan, Hakodate, and Aomori, returning to Tokyo last night. Tomorrow they plan to go to Nikko. Originally, the plan was to end the tour by guiding them to the Skytree ticket office after Senso-ji Temple, but since the afternoon forecast called for rain, we agreed to go up only if the weather held, and proceeded with the itinerary described above. At Meiji Shrine, they were amazed that such a large green space could exist in the middle of the city. Today there were many inbound tour groups. As it was a "Taian" (an auspicious day on the Japanese calendar), several wedding ceremonies were taking place, and they photographed these as well. At the Imperial Palace Outer Garden, it began to drizzle. In Ginza, the pedestrian paradise was in effect, and they were delighted to see this rare sight. Senso-ji Temple was bustling with many inbound tour groups pouring in. However, as the rain began to intensify, we decided to skip the Skytree and headed back.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherTakeshiba~Shimbashi189JPY
    Section 2Free PassShimbashi~Shibuya700JPY
    Section 3TrainShibuya~Harajuku146JPY
    Section 4Free PassMeiji-jingumae~Nijubashimae0JPY
    Section 5Free PassTokyo~Ginza0JPY
    Section 6Free PassGinza~Asakusa0JPY
    Section 7Free PassAsakusa~Shimbashi0JPY
    Total1,035JPY

    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.

    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…

  • Nara in One Day: Kintetsu-Nara Station ←planned & Nara-machi

    Nara in One Day: Kintetsu-Nara Station ←planned & Nara-machi

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:02 Kintetsu-Nara Station (Start of Tour)←planned
    •   In reality, the guest took the wrong train and started at 10:18
    • walk 5 minutes
    • 10:25-11:00 Nakatani-do + Kofukuji Temple
    • walk 15 minutes  via Ukimido
    • 11:40-12:20 Kasuga-taisha Shrine
    • walk 5 minutes
    • 12:30 at the foot of Wakakusayama Hill: former katana sword manufacturer's shop
    • (They no more make Katanas due to prohibition but make good kitchen knives.)
    • walk 5 minutes
    • 12:50-13:20 Lunch at Emado Chaya
    • walk 5 minutes
    • 13:30 Todaiji's Shoro Bell Tower
    • walk 5 minutes
    • 13:40-14:10 Todaiji's Great Buddha Hall
    • walk 5 minutes
    • 14:20-30 Todaiji's Nandaimon (South Great Gate)
    • walk 15 minutes
    • 14:50-15:50 Nara-machi (Old Merchant Quarters of the town):
    • walk 5 minutes
    • 16:10 Nakatani-do again (End of Tour)

    Title: Can You Do a Private Day Trip to Nara When a Guest Boards the Wrong Train? A Licensed Guide's Report The guest was scheduled to board at Karasuma Oike Station, about 400m east of the accommodation, and come directly to Kintetsu Nara Station without any transfers. Then a message came through a messaging app: "I think I got on the wrong train?" When I looked at the attached photo, I could hardly believe it — it was a Hankyu train! Bound for Tenkajaya, departing from Kawaramachi, with the next stop at Karasuma. I have no idea how this could have happened, but after exchanging messages back and forth through the messaging app, the guest managed to reach Kintetsu Nara, 1 hour and 16 minutes behind schedule. What a relief! The tour began with a "We finally made it!" hug. It was a wonderful day. As for the delayed start — no worries! — the guide enjoyed a solid six hours or so. That's the power of a hug (laughs).

    Hello! Thank you for choosing Nara! I bet you’ll love Nara. I specialize in Nara because Nara is the unique place where in one day you can cover the history and religions of Japan from the ancient times to the post war era while enjoying rambling in the UNESCO World Heritage park, having communication with lovely deer, surrounded with the beautiful nature.
    I grew up in Nara, went university in Kyoto, enjoyed teaching at high schools and a university in Osaka. The three former capitals of Japan are home to me.
    After retiring from teaching I began guiding so that I can meet various people from various corners of the world with a variety of cultures and backgrounds. Each time I guide, I find it hugely rewarding because I learn a lot from my guests sharing the history, culture and all that I know about Nara, Kyoto and Osaka.
    I used to be a marathon runner, mountain climber and skier though I am not much of them anymore.
    What I especially recommend is to stay in Nara a couple of days and enjoy communicating with friendly deer while visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Nara in early morning, temples and shrines at night are well worth experiencing.

    May 16, 2026
    I3520JTcristinat
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Nara with family
    Excellent tour with Junichi!!! Perfect English speaking guide and…

    May 3, 2026
    Maria_J
    Viator review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Enjoyable day in Nara
    We spent 6 hours in Nara with Junichi…

    Apr 11, 2026
    64sandig
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 8hr Private Tour – Osaka DEP. with Licensed Guide
    ????? Absolutely Outstanding ? Junichi Made Our Nara Day…

    Mar 30, 2026
    dpadillachavez
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 8hr Private Tour – Kyoto DEP. with Licensed Guide
    Great day at Nara!
    Best tour on Nara, Junichi…

  • Tokyo: Yanaka Ginza

    Tokyo: Yanaka Ginza

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1.9:00 Meet @ Tokyo International Cruise Terminal
    • 2.9:30 @ Shibuya crossing
    • 3.10:00 @ Chidorigafuchi
    • 4.10:40 @ East Gardens
    • 5.12:00 @ Yanaka Cemetery Sakura-dori
    • 6:12:20 Yanaka Ginza
    • 7.13:15 @ Tokyo Museum
    • 8.14:50 @ Transfer to hotel
    • 9.16:00 Dismissal @ Hotel Nikko Narita

    Title: What's a Private Cherry Blossom Car Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The group and I were able to meet smoothly at the Tokyo International Cruise Terminal. The group made their way around while pulling a cart. At the East Gardens, they remarked on how beautiful the Japanese garden was. They had already visited various places on their tour, but the weather had been poor and they had not been able to see the cherry blossoms. On the driver's suggestion, we went to Chidorigafuchi. They were delighted, saying it was very beautiful. We also drove through the cherry blossom avenue at Yanaka Cemetery so they could enjoy the blossoms. They said that the menchi katsu from a shop in Yanaka Ginza was more delicious than other restaurants, and after eating it once, they went back to buy more and ate it again. They joked that this was the highlight of the tour. After that, we stopped by the permanent exhibition and garden at the Tokyo National Museum before heading to the Hotel. The group was particularly interested in history and said the museum was wonderful as well. One of the guests seemed a little tired. The roads were smooth, and the driver kindly took us along routes with beautiful cherry blossoms, which made it a lovely experience.

    Hello, I am Fumiko, an English-speaking Tourist Guide. I have been guiding foreign visitors science 2016. Please let me know your bucket lists whiles you are staying in Japan and what you are interested in. I will make the best plan for you. This is an once in a lifetime experience for you. As for myself, I love traveling, meeting people, eating local food, drinking, history, and art. I am learning Ikebana, traditional Japanese-style flower arrangement, and tea ceremony. I also love sports, especially tennis. I like children, so I can teach them some origami, folding paper. I am looking forward to hearing from you and seeing you in Japan.

    Jul 27, 2026
    zyarisa
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Fumiko tour good vibes only
    Mrs. fumiko was very…

    Jul 23, 2026
    734mortenp
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Nice tour of Tokyo
    Don’t visit Tokyo without a guide! You’ll…

    Jul 10, 2026
    Jessica_A
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Fumiko was wonderful. …
    Fumiko was wonderful. You can…

    Jun 28, 2026
    alistairn2016
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Fumiko is a great tour guide – informative, friendly and very well…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Asakusa

    Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Asakusa

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Meet at Hotel
    • 8:50 Meiji Shrine
    • 9:50 Shinjuku Gyoen
    • 10:55 Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 11:50 Lunch: ate food bought at Seven-Eleven inside Otemachi Station
    • 12:20 Ueno Park, Ueno Toshogu Shrine
    • 13:20 Asakusa
    • 13:40 Disband at MonkeyKart (Yokokawa, Sumida Ward)

    Title: What's a One-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Meiji Shrine, Shinjuku Gyoen, and the Imperial Palace East Gardens There were occasional light showers, but it never rained heavily, so the tour proceeded pleasantly. The tour with [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) was originally scheduled to end at 2:00 at Monkey Kart, but it was moved up to 1:40, so we hurried through the itinerary. First, at Tokyo Station, we confirmed how to use the tickets for the trip to Kyoto the following day. At Meiji Shrine, the guests were delighted by the greenery of the forest. We arrived at Shinjuku Gyoen shortly before 10:00 and entered, though it was quite crowded. The guests enjoyed the camellias, cherry blossoms, and the fresh young leaves of the pines and maples, taking many photos. At the Imperial Palace East Gardens, I explained some historical background, and the guests took an interest in the bamboo and cherry blossoms. In the Japanese garden, they took many photos and clearly enjoyed themselves greatly. Since there was not much time, they ate food purchased at a convenience store on a bench at the station. Ueno Park was also quite crowded, with many food stalls set up, which the guests looked at with curiosity. As time was running short, at Asakusa we only took photos at Kaminarimon before heading to the final destination, Monkey Kart, where the tour ended exactly at the appointed time.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShiomi~Tokyo167JPY
    Section 2TrainNijubashimae~Meiji-jingumae700JPY
    Section 3TrainMeiji-jingumae~Shinjuku-sanchome0JPY
    Section 4TrainSendagaya~Iidabashi167JPY
    Section 5TrainIidabashi~Takebashi0JPY
    Section 6TrainOtemachi~Yushima0JPY
    Section 7TrainUeno~Asakusa0JPY
    Section 8TrainAsakusa~Oshiage178JPY
    Total1,212JPY

    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.

    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…

  • Kanazawa Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kanazawa Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • AM 09:00 Start from Kanazawa Station
    • Transfer to Higashi Chaya District by bus
    • AM 09:20 – AM 11:00 From Kazuemachi to Higashi Chaya District, visit Shima, Utasu Shrine, Kanazawa Sakuda Gold Leaf
    • Transfer to Kenrokuen by bus
    • AM 11:20-PM 12:30 Visit Kenrokuen Garden, from Kanazawa Castle Park to Omicho Market
    • PM 12:30-13:20 Lunch at Omicho Market
    • Transfer to Nagamachi Samurai District by bus
    • PM 13:40-14:30 Nagamachi Samurai District, visit Nomura Family Residence, Takada Family, Ashigaru Museum
    • Transfer to Kanazawa Station by bus PM 14:50 Tour disbands at the taxi stand

    Title: What Is a Private Cherry Blossom Tour of Kanazawa Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The meeting point was arranged the day before the tour, and the guests were arriving from a cruise ship. This was a group tour for guests from North America. On the day, there were occasional showers, but it stayed sunny at Kenrokuen Garden and Kanazawa Castle Park, so the guests were able to fully enjoy the cherry blossoms in full bloom. At Utasu Shrine, they bowed before the torii gate and offered their prayers on their own initiative, showing a genuine interest in Japanese culture, which made guiding them very rewarding. They also enjoyed lunch at Omicho Market while having some drinks.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKanazawa~Hashibacho210JPY
    Section 2BusHashibacho~Kenrokuen-shita210JPY
    Section 3BusOmicho~Korinbo210JPY
    Section 4BusKorinbo~Kanazawa210JPY
    Total840JPY

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

    Jul 25, 2026
    Ann W
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Incredible tour, one of the highlights of my…

    Jul 18, 2026
    Geert73
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    A Well-Organized and Informative Tour of Kanazawa
    We, a…

    Jul 15, 2026
    G5010ZVmelodys
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Local Food & Tea Culture Tour with Licensed Guide
    Number one guide for personalised touring of Kanazawa
    Our…

    Jul 11, 2026
    rikkes490
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Rigtig god guidet tur
    Rigtig god oplevelse og gode forklaringer

    とても良いガイドツアーでした。
    とても良い体験でした。説明も分かりやすく、とても良かったです。

  • Tokyo in One Day: Shinjuku Gyoen & Harajuku Takeshita Street

    Tokyo in One Day: Shinjuku Gyoen & Harajuku Takeshita Street

    Tour Itinerary

    • 12:00 Meet at Tokyu Stay Shinjuku
    • 12:20 Shinjuku Gyoen
    • 13:30 Asakusa (Skytree photo)
    • 15:20 East Gardens of the Imperial Palace
    • 16:40 Meiji Shrine
    • 17:20 Harajuku Takeshita Street
    • 17:55 Dismissal at Shibuya Scramble Crossing

    Title: What Is a Full-Day Private Walking Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The weather was fine and the guests kept a quick pace, so the tour proceeded smoothly. At Shinjuku Gyoen, the cherry blossoms were in full bloom, and they enjoyed taking many photos of the camellias, cherry blossoms, and the fresh young leaves of the maples. We exited from the Sendagaya Gate and went from Asakusabashi to Asakusa. In Asakusa, the guests purchased two kinds each of matcha and green tea tax-free at a specialty shop and seemed very satisfied. At the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, they also took photos of the cherry blossoms and the many varieties of bamboo. Afterward, we continued on to Meiji Shrine and Takeshita Street. Although the fatigue of travel began to show, the guests regained their energy on Takeshita Street and enjoyed some sweets. We then guided them to the Shibuya Scramble Crossing, where the tour concluded. Shibuya was very crowded, so guiding from the East Exit to the West Exit was quite a challenge. I received a tip at the end of the tour.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainSendagaya~Asakusabashi178JPY
    Section 2TrainAsakusabashi~Asakusa178JPY
    Section 3TrainAsakusa~Takebashi700JPY
    Section 4TrainOtemachi~Meiji-jingumae0JPY
    Section 5TrainMeiji-jingumae~Shibuya0JPY
    Total1,056JPY

    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.

    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…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Sensoji Temple

    Tokyo in One Day: Sensoji Temple

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Hotel
    • 9:10 Sensoji Temple
    • 9:50 Akihabara, lunch at Hanamaru Udon
    • 12:20 Ikebukuro, matcha cafe
    • 14:30 Disband at Tokyo Station

    Title: What's a Private Tour of Asakusa, Akihabara, and Ikebukuro Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guest requested a private tour visiting Asakusa, Akihabara, and Ikebukuro. When asked in advance whether they had any favorite anime or characters, they said they did not have anything in particular. In reality, however, the guest turned out to be a passionate fan of the original Pokémon games and still repeatedly plays Pokémon Red on a Game Boy. In Akihabara, the guest asked about a boxed Pokémon Red with a map included (21,900 yen), and I explained the meaning of the "sun-faded" labeling on the software. The guest also wanted old-back Pokémon cards, so I showed them the old-back section at a specialty Pokémon card shop. Although it did not lead to a purchase, when I mentioned that I use a Pokémon card deck case (500 yen) as a business card holder at home, the guest was delighted and said that was a great way to use it. For lunch we had Hanamaru Udon, and the guest seemed to enjoy being able to choose their own toppings. (Fortunately, there were no other customers behind us, so they could take their time selecting.) In Ikebukuro, the guest was amazed at the scale of Tokyo from the observation deck at Sunshine, saw the Pokémon Center, and enjoyed a matcha milk drink at a matcha café.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKyobashi~Asakusa209JPY
    Section 2SubwayAsakusa~Suehirocho178JPY
    Section 3SubwayAkihabara~Ikebukuro208JPY
    Section 4TrainIkebukuro~Tokyo208JPY
    Total803JPY

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

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

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

    Please feel free to ask me anything!

    Jul 10, 2026
    Brooke_J
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Tokyo History Modernized!
    This tour was a wonderful experience.…

    Jun 19, 2026
    Catherine_S
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great experience!
    We had a wonderful time with Sam, who took our…

    Jun 7, 2026
    Elena_Q
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Fun visit to Tokyo!
    Wonderful customized tour of Tokyo with Sam. She…

    May 12, 2026
    Leonard B
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Awesome experience with a very knowledgeable friendly guide.
    We had an…

  • Tokyo Hidden Gems Off the Beaten Path Tour

    Tokyo Hidden Gems Off the Beaten Path Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1.10:00 Meet up @the Prince Sakura Tower
    • 2.10:30 @Hamarikyu Gardens
    • 3.11:30 @Zojoji Temple
    • 4.12:00 @Tokyo Tower
    • 5.13:15 Lunch @"Echigoya Yasokichi (Charcoal-grilled Dried Fish Restaurant)"
    • 6.14:00 @Ginza (Higashi-Ginza, Ginza 4-chome Intersection, Kyukyodo, NISSAN Showroom)
    • 7.14:30 @Imperial Palace (Sakuradamon Gate, Nijubashi Bridge, Main Gate)
    • 8.15:00 @Walk through the Imperial Palace Inui Street
    • 9.15:30 @Tayasumon Gate (Kitanomaru Park), Chidorigafuchi
    • 10.16:20 Disband @the Prince Sakura Tower

    What's a Private Tokyo Cherry Blossom Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Hamarikyu, Tokyo Tower, Ginza and the Imperial Palace The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from North America. To save time and energy, we took a taxi from the hotel in Shinagawa to our first stop, Hamarikyu Gardens. We strolled slowly, and the guests were delighted by the various kinds of cherry blossoms, rapeseed flowers, and camellias in the garden. At the teahouse on the central island, one of the guests, who had never tried real matcha before, was very curious and enjoyed a matcha set served with a traditional Japanese sweet. They seemed to love it. Throughout the tour, the guests approached everything with strong curiosity and actively enjoyed new experiences. At Tokyo Tower, they wished to go up to the observation deck, and although it was a little crowded, we climbed to the 150-meter deck and enjoyed the view of Tokyo from above. For lunch, I guided them to a small restaurant specializing in charcoal-grilled dried fish, located right by the subway exit in Higashi-Ginza. It was actually my first time going in as well, but at a reasonable price under 1,000 yen, the food was simple yet delicious. The guests ordered a grilled horse mackerel set and a charcoal-grilled chicken set, and finished everything. They said they could not think of a meal this delicious and healthy anywhere else. They also loved the small, local-style atmosphere of the restaurant and took photos of the narrow staircase. After the meal, on the way to the Ginza 4-chome intersection, I introduced the Kabukiza Theatre and the entrance to the free kabuki introduction corner on an upper floor of the building. When we arrived at Ginza's main street, it happened to be a pedestrian paradise. One of the guests, who loves cars, went into the NISSAN showroom and took commemorative photos with a supercar. The guests were also fond of Kyukyodo. We then continued as planned to the front of the Nijubashi Bridge at the Imperial Palace, but as the guests seemed a little tired, I asked how they would like to spend the rest of the time. As a result, we changed the original plan and, instead of Shinjuku Gyoen, experienced walking through the Inui Street of the Imperial Palace. We continued further to Kitanomaru Park, and the guests were soothed by the sight of people enjoying hanami under the cherry blossoms. When we passed by the Nippon Budokan and I mentioned the Beatles, one of the guests shared a memory that the first record they were ever bought was the Beatles' "She Loves You," and that their mother had asked, "Are you sure this is really what you want?" Soon after we exited through the Tayasumon Gate, they were deeply moved by the cherry blossoms leaning toward the surface of the moat, and took many photos. Blessed with fine weather, it became a tour full of cherry blossom viewing. By chance, the guests felt a sense of connection over a shared link to a city in North America, and during the walk they shared many stories, including fond memories and about their family. The guests had no children between them, but one of the guests had a child who enjoys fishing, and they showed me a photo of that child standing next to a bluefin tuna measuring 3.6 meters that had been caught. We also enjoyed talking about many local topics, including the subway situation in a city in North America, and they told me how much it had changed compared to about 40 years ago when I had once lived there.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassToei Oedo Line Shiodome Station~Daimon Station900JPY
    Section 2Free PassTokyo Metro Hibiya Line Kamiyacho Station~Higashi-Ginza Station0JPY
    Section 3Free PassTokyo Metro Yurakucho Line Ginza-itchome Station~Sakuradamon Station0JPY
    Section 4Free PassTokyo Metro Tozai Line Kudanshita Station~Nihombashi Station0JPY
    Section 5Free PassToei Asakusa Line Nihombashi Station~Sengakuji Station0JPY
    Section 6TrainKeikyu Line Sengakuji Station~Shinagawa Station150JPY
    Total1,050JPY

    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!

    Jul 3, 2026
    Jody D
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    Best Post cruise tour ever
    It was…

    June 19, 2026
    Alec T
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo in 4 hours
    Noripy was excellent! She guided us through…

    Jun 16, 2026
    Hema_R
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Lovely experience. My…
    Lovely experience. My guide was an absolutely adorable lady…

    Jun 3, 2026
    Sara B
    Tokyo walking tour with Noripy. A+!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Noripy gave a 5/5 tour!…