Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

May, 2025

Tour Itinerary

①9:00 Meet at the hotel
②9:40〜10:40 Gotokuji, Setagaya Hachimangu Shrine
③11:10〜11:30 Shibuya Crossing
④12:10〜12:45 Koishikawa Korakuen
⑤13:15〜14:45 Asakusa, Lunch
⑥15:20 Disband at JR Shinjuku Station

What's a Private One-Day Tokyo Temple and Shrine Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from Oceania. They had arrived the previous night, and today was their first day of sightseeing, with plans to stay in Tokyo for the following week. In addition to the major tourist spots, they had requested to visit temples and shrines, so we stopped by Gotokuji Temple and Setagaya Hachimangu Shrine. In the quiet atmosphere, the fresh greenery was beautiful, and they were delighted by the many unique cat figures. In Asakusa, they enjoyed ramen at Kamukura and were very satisfied with how delicious it was. Besides sightseeing in Tokyo, they planned to take a day trip to the Fuji Five Lakes. Since they seemed to enjoy quiet temples, I recommended that they spend a day in Kamakura if they had the time. The weather was good, and it seems they thoroughly enjoyed their first full day of sightseeing in Tokyo.

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

Transportation cost per person

No.	Transportation	Route	Fare
Section 1	Train	Shinjuku～Miyanosaka	350JPY
Section 2	Train	Miyanosaka～Shibuya	340JPY
Section 3	Train	Shibuya～Iidabashi	180JPY
Section 4	Train	Suidobashi～Asakusa	360JPY
Section 5	Train	Asakusa～Shinjuku	360JPY
Total			1,590JPY

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
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Best of Nara
Amazing trip to Nara with the most…

Jul 10, 2026
valerianos862
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Private tour of Tokyo.
Our guide Sam is very…

Jun 20, 2026
Sarah B
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We learned how to ride the trains and we went to…

Apr 14, 2026
MDMallory
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The Natural Beauty of Kamakura
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August, 2026

Nara in One Day: Guide to Kofuku-ji & Guide to Kasuga Taisha

Nara Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

May, 2025

Tour Itinerary

9:00: Meet with guests @ JR Nara Station
9:30: Guide to Kofuku-ji Temple
10:00: Guide to Nara Park
10:30: Guide to Himuro Shrine
11:00: Guide to Yoshikien Garden
11:30: Guide to Great Buddha Hall
13:00: Guide to Kasuga Taisha Shrine
14:00: Disband @ Higashimuki Shopping Street

Title: Can You Do a Private Day Tour of Nara from JR Nara Station? A Licensed Guide's Report I met the guests, a group visiting from North America, at JR Nara Station at 9:00 as scheduled. I explained the day's itinerary and we started sightseeing, but since the guests wanted to finish sightseeing early to have time for shopping, I proceeded accordingly. First, at Kofuku-ji Temple, I introduced the transmission of Buddhism and its teachings while explaining the role of Jizo Bodhisattva at the children's cemetery and the meaning of the pagoda at the three-story pagoda, and I showed them the Nan'endo, Hokuendo, and Konpon-do halls. However, the guests did not seem very interested in Buddhist statues or religion. After giving a brief explanation of Kofuku-ji, we moved on to Nara Park, where the guests enjoyed feeding the deer while we strolled through the park. From Nara Park, I guided them to Himuro Shrine, the birthplace of ice, where I explained Shinto. From there, to avoid the crowds of travelers on the approach to Todai-ji Temple, we moved to Yoshikien Garden so the guests could enjoy the quiet Japanese garden, and then we headed from Yoshikien to Todai-ji. At the Great Buddha Hall, I explained the difference between Nyorai and Bosatsu and the Buddhist concept of reincarnation, and the guests were indeed amazed by the imposing size of the Great Buddha. We moved slowly from the Great Buddha Hall to Kasuga Taisha Shrine, and I talked about the relationship between the shrine and the deer as we visited the main hall. After visiting the main hall of Kasuga Taisha and its auxiliary shrines, we went to Ukimido Hall, where the guests appreciated the beauty of nature, and then we proceeded from Ukimido to the shopping street in Nara. Although it was a little early, we parted ways there so the guests could enjoy shopping.

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Tour Report by Toshi

After a rather long teaching experience at Japanese college, I converted my career about 6 years ago into working as a tour guide for the tourists visiting Japan.
As my career overseas, I’ve been in the UN and the Japanese Embassy, all in the USA, totaling more than 6 years.
And then I had made a big change in my career from a diplomat to an academic researcher. For that career to achieve, I studied abroad and won a doctorate degree in linguistics from Indiana University and landed a teaching position at college in Japan.
With all these interesting and exciting experiences I’ve made myself ready to enrich your tour and make it both enjoyable and worthwhile.

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Apr 26, 2026
39ferdinandr
Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
Exceptional and entertaining
Great tour better the tour guide Toshi.

Apr 9, 2026
X1429XKclaudiam
Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
Sehr zu empfehlen
Wir haben als Familie diese 6-stundige Tour durch Kyoto…

Jun 28, 2025
WilliamAlfonso_R
Toshi is a very eloquent, knowledgeable, and diligent tour guide.
Viator review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
Toshi was…

May 30, 2025
Z
ZevP5
Best Tour Guide!
Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
Yoshi was the best guide!! He was so…

August, 2026

Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

May, 2025

Tour Itinerary

10:00 Meet in the lobby of Hotel Cabin President. Reconfirmed the previously arranged course, and set the route as Sensoji Temple → East Gardens of the Imperial Palace → Shibuya Scramble Crossing → Meiji Shrine. Used a common one-day subway pass.
10:30-12:30 Guided from Asakusa Station to Azumabashi Bridge, then from Azumabashi Bridge to Nakamise shopping street, Hozomon Gate, main hall, and Asakusa Shrine. As the two of them will be freely moving around Tokyo from tomorrow, the 12th, until the 15th, they said they would come back here again slowly. After finishing, moved to the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace.
13:05-14:10 Guided the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace. Although it was Sunday, there were fewer people than expected, and it was a quiet environment, so both of them liked the gardens very much. After finishing, moved to Shibuya.
14:40-15:15 Guided the Shibuya Scramble Crossing and Hachiko. After finishing, moved to Meiji-jingumae via the Fukutoshin Line.
15:35-16:25 Guided Meiji Shrine. As it had exceeded six hours by the time we finished, the customers said, "We'll wander around this area a bit on our own from here," so we parted at the entrance of Meiji Shrine.

Where Can You Buy Tokyo Subway Passes and Find Chopstick Shops in Asakusa? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests mentioned they would return to Nakamise Street another day to shop at their leisure, and asked me to recommend chopstick shops and a knife shop, so I introduced two chopstick shops on Nakamise Street and the knife shop "Kanesou." They also wanted to purchase a 48-hour subway ticket valid from the 12th until the morning of the 14th, and since these are sold at Omotesando Station, which we passed while traveling from Otemachi to Shibuya, I helped them buy it there, which delighted them very much. They had actually wanted to purchase it at Kachidoki Station, but the common subway 24-hour, 48-hour, and 72-hour tickets are only sold at Ueno Station, Ginza Station, Shinjuku Station, Omotesando Station, Tokyo Station, and Ikebukuro Station. So for today's tour, they purchased a one-day pass for 900 yen, and were pleased to be able to buy a 48-hour ticket for 1,200 yen per person for the following days (which works out to only 600 yen per day since it covers two days).

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Transportation cost per person

No.	Transportation	Route	Fare
Section 1	Subway	Kachidoki～Asakusa	900JPY
Section 2	Subway	Asakusa～Otemachi	0JPY
Section 3	Subway	Otemachi～Shibuya	0JPY
Section 4	Subway	Shibuya～Meiji-jingumae	0JPY
Total			900JPY

Tour Report by MINORUASAI

I acquired national guide license in 2014, and I have been doing guide work full fledged since 2016. In my career before starting guide work, I was a business man and made more than 1,000 business trips both abroad and in Japan, and that experience is my foundation as a guide because I came to know so many places both abroad and in Japan. I have been taking care of both group and individual tourists, and the number of foreign guests I have taken care is close to 2,500 so far. I am based in Tokyo, but I can cover guide work in many prefectures throughout Japan. When I take care of foreign guests, my major concern is to listen attentively to them, find out what they want to know and do in Japan, and give them appropriate guiding in accordance with what I heard from my guests. I would like to provide tailor made tour as much as possible for every precious guest who kindly chose Japan as the tour destination.

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Aug 1, 2025
8
898kendrap
Great first day in Tokyo!
Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
Asai, our tour guide, made our…

Jul 14, 2025
Anette_V
Perfect
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Our guide Minoru Asai was very friendly and knowledgeable about culture,…

Jun 30, 2025
liammL2246HL
Amazing experience
Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
We had an amazing private tour with Minoru Asai! We…

Jun 26, 2025
394milesd
Excellent guide making an excellent day in Tokyo
Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
A perfect day, tailored…

August, 2026

Tokyo in One Day: Tsukiji & Shibuya Scramble Crossing

Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

May, 2025

Tour Itinerary

9:30 Meet up @Hotel Tokyo Ginza
9:40 Tsukiji (Outer Market, Honganji Temple)
11:30 Asakusa (Kaminarimon, Nakamise, Sensoji Temple, Hoppy Street, Shin-Nakamise)
12:45 Koishikawa Korakuen
14:15 Lunch @Forest Terrace Meiji Jingu
14:45 Meiji Jingu
15:30 Shibuya Scramble Crossing
16:00 Disband @Shibuya Center Street

Title: What's a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tsukiji, Asakusa, Meiji Shrine, and Shibuya The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from North America, planning to visit the Fuji Five Lakes and Kyoto after Tokyo. We proceeded with the tour according to the itinerary agreed upon before their arrival, with Shibuya added as a bonus. At the Tsukiji Outer Market, one of the guests boldly sampled everything from seafood to sweets. At Hongwanji Temple, I explained Japanese religions and the Japanese view of religion. In Asakusa, they also enjoyed nibbling on snacks along Shin-Nakamise. Since they wanted to visit a garden with history, I chose Koishikawa Korakuen, which turned out to be an excellent choice. Today was a "Taian" (a lucky day on the Japanese calendar), so as expected, at Meiji Shrine we were able to see two Shinto wedding processions. Recently, there are many cases where the groom is not Japanese. At the Scramble Crossing, the guests were unusually excited and were eagerly taking videos from a Starbucks. One of the guests ate heartily, another laughed a great deal, and another, having studied East Asian history, listened very attentively to my explanations — three individuals with their own distinct characters. They were amazed at how inexpensive Japanese railway fares are.

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

Transportation cost per person

No.	Transportation	Route	Fare
Section 1	Subway	Asakusa Line Higashi-Ginza～Asakusa Line Asakusa	220JPY
Section 2	Train	Asakusa Line Asakusa～JR Suidobashi	324JPY
Section 3	Train	JR Suidobashi～JR Harajuku	178JPY
Section 4	Train	JR Harajuku～JR Shibuya	146JPY
Total			868JPY

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

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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…

August, 2026

Tokyo in One Day: Koishikawa Korakuen Garden & Ginza Mikimoto

Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

May, 2025

Tour Itinerary

10:00 Pickup at hotel
10:30 Stroll through Koishikawa Korakuen Garden
12:40 Lunch at Gonpachi Asakusa Azumabashi
13:30 Stroll through Asakusa
15:00 Wait for sumo wrestlers coming out at Ryogoku Kokugikan May tournament (photo with wrestlers)
15:30 Shopping at Ginza Mikimoto
16:00 Tour ends at Meiji Shrine

Title: What's a Private Tokyo Tour Like Including Sumo, Asakusa, and Ginza? A Licensed Guide's Report 1. The Guests' Experience and Reactions One of the guests had some difficulty with their knee. Walking on flat ground was not a problem at all, but climbing and descending stairs required moving slowly. I tried to use elevators and escalators whenever possible, but at Asakusa Station the station entrances with such facilities were far away or inconveniently located, so moving around took more time than expected. For this reason, after visiting the Kokugikan, we used a taxi for the rest of the itinerary at the guests' request and expense. In addition, the guests requested to purchase pearls at Mikimoto in Ginza, so I adjusted the itinerary. After confirming with the guests that there would no longer be time to visit Meiji Shrine, I added a visit to Mikimoto and guided them to the first torii gate of Meiji Shrine, where the tour concluded. For this tour, I suggested waiting to see the sumo wrestlers after the May Grand Sumo Tournament. A lower-division wrestler who came out of the Kokugikan after finishing their bout kindly agreed to take a photo, and the guests were absolutely delighted. After the tour, I also received the following message from the guests. Thank you so much today. You were the icing on our Asia trip cake!! 2. Other Notes Since I had not been aware beforehand that one of the guests had difficulty with their knee, it took time to adjust our route, which is a point of reflection for me. Going forward, I will improve by confirming during pre-tour email exchanges whether any care regarding walking is needed, and by researching station layout maps in advance.

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

Transportation cost per person

No.	Transportation	Route	Fare
Section 1	Train	Akasaka-mitsuke～Suidobashi	380JPY
Section 2	Train	Iidabashi～Asakusa	220JPY
Section 3	Train	Asakusa～Ryogoku	330JPY
Total			930JPY

Tour Report by Toru

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

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

I look forward to meeting you soon!

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Sep 25, 2026
robert_s
Fantastic experience!
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Sep 24, 2026
Pamela_S
Ask for Toru!
Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
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Sep 13, 2026
S4579HLmaxf
An unforgettable morning at Toyosu
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Outstanding experience at the…

Sep 7, 2026
Victor_G
All the temples and…
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Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

May, 2025

Tour Itinerary

1. 12:40 Meet up @ The Knot Tokyo Shinjuku
2. 12:50 Travel: Subway
3. 13:30 Stay @ Shinjuku Gyoen
4. 14:50 Travel: Subway
5. 15:30 Stay @ Asakusa
6. 16:35 Stay @ Kappabashi Kitchen Town
7. 17:00 Travel: Subway
8. 17:15 Disband @ Ueno-okachimachi Station

**Title:** What's a Private Tokyo Day Tour Like for a Group Interested in Plants and Cuisine? A Licensed Guide's Report **Body:** This was a somewhat larger group of six guests visiting from Europe. Almost at the same moment I arrived at the Hotel, everyone returned from being out, so we were able to meet up smoothly. Since they had shared specific details about their interests by email in advance, planning the itinerary was very easy. As I had heard that many of them were fond of plants, I first took them to Shinjuku Gyoen. More than the roses in full bloom, they showed great interest in the symbolic tulip tree and the early-blooming irises, and I believe they truly enjoyed it. As I had also learned that many of them were interested in cooking, in Asakusa I set aside time for them to explore the nearby Kappabashi Kitchenware Street. After guiding them through the transfer from Ueno-hirokoji Station to Ueno-okachimachi Station, I explained how to return to Tochomae Station via the Oedo Line, and the tour concluded. Please note that on this occasion the guests paid the admission fee for Shinjuku Gyoen themselves, so it is not included in my reimbursed expenses.

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Transportation cost per person

No.	Transportation	Route	Fare
Section 1	Subway	Tochomae Station～Shinjuku-sanchome Station	180JPY
Section 2	Subway	Shinjuku-sanchome Station～Asakusa Station	280JPY
Section 3	Subway	Tawaramachi Station～Ueno-hirokoji Station	180JPY
Total			640JPY

Tour Report by Sam

Hi. My name is Masafumi Miyazaki. Please call me “Sam”. I am a government-licensed guide.
I was born in Tokyo and was raised in the suburbs of Tokyo called Tama area. When I was in university, I majored in western dramas, so I am good at playing like an actor.
I like reading, listening to the music, and walking. I belong to several walking clubs, and sometimes I guide the members around Tokyo.
One of my strengths as a guide is that I know well about kombu, Japanese kelps. In December every year, I work at a traditional kombu shop in Tsukiji Fish Market. At that shop, I learned a lot of things related to kombu or other ingredients for washoku. I can explain the different characteristics of them to you.
Also, I am familiar with Japanese flowers and plants. If you stroll around a Japanese garden with me, I am sure you will be able to enjoy beautiful flowers and unique plants in every season.
I look forward to meeting you. Thank you.

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Sep 29, 2026
Y9791IZnicks
Making the most of a rainy day
Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
Sam was a wonderful…

Sep 25, 2026
910lorig
Best experience for a perfect day in Tokyo!
Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
Best…

Sep 15, 2026
R8612KOjanicea
Highly recommend 👍
Tripadvisor review: Tsukiji & Asakusa Local Food Tour in 1 Day, Licensed Guide
Our guide, Sam, was amazing!!…

Sep 1, 2026
greasygrandpa
First Day In Tokyo
Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
Our tour guide Sam was very knowledgeable…

August, 2026

Kyoto: Kinkaku-ji Temple & Kyoto Imperial Palace

Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

May, 2025

Tour Itinerary

9:00 Hotel Meet (@Hotel Kyoto)
9:00-9:40 Transfer (client's contracted vehicle; Hotel→Arashiyama・Togetsukyo Bridge)
9:40-10:50 Arashiyama Stroll & Sightseeing (Togetsukyo Bridge, Tenryu-ji Temple [Dharma Hall, Sogenchi Garden, Hyakka-en Garden], Nonomiya Shrine, Bamboo Grove)
10:50-11:20 Transfer (client's contracted vehicle; Tenryu-ji Temple parking lot→Kinkaku-ji Temple)
11:20-12:10 Kinkaku-ji Temple Sightseeing
12:10-12:20 Transfer (client's contracted vehicle; Kinkaku-ji Temple→Restaurant・Washoku Joy Kinkaku-ji Branch)
12:20-13:10 Lunch (@Washoku Joy)
13:10-13:40 Transfer (client's contracted vehicle; Restaurant→Kyoto Imperial Palace)
13:40-14:30 Kyoto Imperial Palace Sightseeing
14:30-15:00 Transfer (client's contracted vehicle; Kyoto Imperial Palace→Hotel・Hotel Kyoto)
15:00 Farewell in front of the Hotel

**Title:** What Is a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like When Guests Change the Itinerary? A Licensed Guide's Report **Body:** The guests were a group visiting from North America. The tour content (destinations) had been properly agreed upon in advance, but on the morning of the tour day a request came in to change the destinations. The originally agreed plan was Arashiyama → Ryoanji → (Lunch) → Kinkakuji, but as the group had already visited Ryoanji the previous day, a request to change the destinations came in just before the tour. Since I had already made a restaurant reservation, I proposed a tour that could proceed without changing the restaurant, and ultimately the plan was changed to Arashiyama → Kinkakuji → (Lunch) → Kyoto Imperial Palace, with the guests' renewed agreement, and we proceeded with the tour. I was very relieved that we were able to proceed without changing the restaurant (cancellation or time change). I want to avoid, as much as possible, losing the trust of the restaurant and the driver due to a change of plans. Regarding the tour, some of the guests were very fond of the Imperial Palace (after hearing about its historical significance), some preferred Kinkakuji, and others said they enjoyed Tenryuji and the bamboo grove. I also gave a proper explanation about Ryoanji and its rock garden, which we did not visit on the tour, during the drive in the car.

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

Transportation cost per person

No.	Transportation	Route	Fare
Section 1	Other	hotel(Fauchon Hotel Kyoto)～Arashiyama・Togetsukyo Bridge	0JPY
Section 2	Other	Tenryu-ji Temple parking lot～Kinkaku-ji Temple	0JPY
Section 3	Other	Kinkaku-ji Temple～Restaurant・Washoku Joy Kinkaku-ji Branch	0JPY
Section 4	Other	Washoku Joy Kinkaku-ji Branch～Kyoto Imperial Palace	0JPY
Section 5	Other	Kyoto Imperial Palace～Hotel（Fauchon Hotel Kyoto)	0JPY
Total			0JPY

Tour Report by Michi

My name is (Mr.)Michiharu Aioi and I worked at Electronic Manufacturing Company (Panasonic) for more than 40 years in charge of overseas sales.
I learned a lot in these 40 years and now I would like to contribute to the promotion of mutual understanding with foreign countries being involved in tourism busines utilizing my long experience in my previous company. I will do my best to make each trip very fruitful for each foreign visitor.
As for my language ability, in addition to English, I can speak Spanish which I used in my job and I can communicate with Chinese people with intermediate level. Finally It is my great pleasure if my activity could work in the mutual understang with foreign visitors. Thanks a Lot !

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Aug 4, 2026
Elie_S
Viator review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
Wonderful and informative walking tour with Michi
We had a lovely…

Jul 19, 2026
Wander35832177180
Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
Kyoto temple tour
Our Kyoto guided tour (Aioi Michiharu) was a…

Jul 16, 2026
Abby_M
Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
Excellent tour. Highly recommend
Michi our guide was excellent!…

Jul 13, 2026
Javier P
Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
Kyoto gems
Michi was incredibly courteous and informative.…

August, 2026

Tokyo in One Day: Shinjuku Midori no Madoguchi & Shibuya

Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

May, 2025

Tour Itinerary

9:00　Meet at Knot Tokyo Shinjuku
9:30 Shinjuku Midori no Madoguchi
10:30 Meiji Shrine
11:40 Lunch　GON PACHI
12:30 Takeshita Street – Omotesando
14:00 Shibuya
15:00 Shimbashi Yurikamome, disband

Title: What Can You Do on a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report on Shinjuku, Harajuku, and Shibuya The guests were visitors from Oceania. They wanted to prioritize activating their JR Pass and reserving train seats, so we first went to the ticket office at Shinjuku Station. Because they needed a one-week JR Pass, tickets for a Hakone round trip, and further tickets for the Kansai area, the process took nearly an hour including the waiting time. They were very grateful, saying they could now travel from the next day without worry. Since they had a 16:30 reservation at Team Lab Planet, we skipped Asakusa and the Tsukiji market and changed the route to the Harajuku and Shibuya areas. They enjoyed lunch at a restaurant in Harajuku along with some sake, and were very satisfied. At the rainbow cotton candy shop on Takeshita Street, they were delighted to get a great photo they could use on social media. I saw them off at the Yurikamome station in Shimbashi, where we said goodbye. They said they were able to arrange their tickets and that it had been a very good day.

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

Transportation cost per person

No.	Transportation	Route	Fare
Section 1	Subway	Tochomae～Shinjuku	178JPY
Section 2	Train	Shinjuku～Harajuku	146JPY
Section 3	Subway	Omotesando～Shibuya	178JPY
Section 4	Train	Shibuya～Shimbashi	178JPY
Total			680JPY

Tour Report by Kris

My name is Kris,
Before becoming a tour guide, I worked for a major steelmaking company as an engineer for many years. During my career, I lived and worked in both Germany and the United States for a total of five years. These experiences helped me understand different cultures and ways of thinking, which now helps me connect easily with guests from around the world.

After retirement, I chose a second career as a tour guide because I truly enjoy meeting people from different countries and sharing Japanese culture, history, and daily life. I have been working as a guide for more than nine years and continue to enjoy every tour.

I currently live in Tokyo, but I was born and raised in Kobe, near Osaka, and my family roots are in Kyoto. As a result, I have extensive knowledge not only of Tokyo but also of Kyoto, Osaka, and many other parts of Japan. I enjoy introducing both famous landmarks and hidden local gems that many visitors might otherwise miss.

I am energetic, friendly, and very sociable. I always try to create tours that are relaxed, flexible, and tailored to my guests’ interests.

Travel is one of my greatest passions, especially visiting hot spring resorts. I have visited more than 80 onsen destinations throughout Japan, giving me a deep appreciation of Japanese culture and regional traditions.

Whether you are visiting Japan for the first time or returning for another adventure, I would be delighted to help you discover the real Japan from a local perspective.

I look forward to meeting you and helping you create wonderful memories in Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and beyond.

See you in Japan!

Kris

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May 10, 2026
Matt_B
Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
A Wonderful Introduction to Tokyo
We were so lucky to have Kris-San…

Apr 29, 2026
Rebecca_M
Viator review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide
Excellent tour
We had such a wonderful…

Apr 21, 2026
jacquir581
Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
We love Kris
Kris was awesome! He was very flexible when our…

Apr 2, 2026
Frank_B
Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
A great day in Tokyo
Great tour with an excellent guide, Kris.…

August, 2026

Kochi: Purchase kitchen knife at a cutlery shop & Kochi New Port

Kochi Shore Excursion: Customized Car Tour, Licensed Guide

May, 2025

Tour Itinerary

9:30 Depart from Kochi New Port by chartered taxi
10:10 Paper making, tapestry making (Tosa City)
12:30 Lunch
13:30 Purchase kitchen knife at a cutlery shop (near Kochi Castle)
14:00 Kochi Castle (gave up midway on the stone steps)
15:00 Only used the cafe at Makino Botanical Garden
15:40 Arrive at Kochi New Port

Title: What Is a Private Papermaking and Kochi City Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were pleasant and easygoing, and although the email exchange beforehand was not very smooth, we had an enjoyable tour once we met in person. This papermaking experience costs 6,000 yen per person, which is expensive, but the level of satisfaction is high. However, since cancellation fees apply for cancellations made the day before or on the day, I made the reservation with the understanding that I would cover that cost myself this time. For lunch after the papermaking, we chose the dining area attached to a local farm-products direct sales shop, about a three-minute walk away. The style is to place one dish at a time on a tray, and the guests chose items such as fried chicken and gyoza. Since one of the guests had knee pain, we decided not to push all the way up Kochi Castle, as coming back down would be harder, and turned back after about one third of the way. The taxi driver kindly said it would be fine to leave after 15:30, so we left the Makino Botanical Garden at 15:30 and returned to the new port at around 15:40.

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

Tour Report by KAY

Hi! I’m Kay.
It’s my pleasure to be your guide.
I was born and raised in Kochi city, and I worked for Kochi City Hall for nearly 30 years, so I think I know a lot about Kochi.

Firstly, I can guide you to the Kochi castle. Most castles you can find in Japan have been rebuilt after fires, wars, or natural disasters. However, Kochi Castle is one of the very few castles that still have the whole structure of its original tower and the mail palace from the Edo period (1603–1868). This makes it especially valuable for understanding Japan’s history and traditional architecture. You’ll like it!

Other major tourist sites are adventurous Ryugado limestone cave, Makino botanical garden, Chikurinji temple with historical stonesteps, Zenjibuji temple with the spectacular panoramic view, paper-making activity, Oboke gorge, Nakatsu gorge, Niyodo river with a historical bridge and so on.
If you like sake, you can visit sake brewery, and if you are interested in walking local streets, you can stroll my neighborhood.

Kochi is a small city, but it’s very popular among tourists for its beautiful nature and good food. I took my kids to rivers and mountains when they were little. If you are interested in those places, please ask me. And I know many good restaurants, too.
I’m looking forward to enjoying them together with you!

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Jul 7, 2026
A_J
Viator review: Port Pick-Up: Kochi Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
Excellent tour with Kay
Had an amazing time with our…

Jun 1, 2026
romankU9693SM
Tripadvisor review: Port Pick-Up: Kochi Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
Our trip to Kochi
Kay was a wonderful guide, very…

May 28, 2026
nancykotr
Viator review: Port Pick-Up: Kochi Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
Kay was a wonderful…
Kay was a wonderful guide. We…

Apr 22, 2026
Jörg R
Tripadvisor review: Port Pick-Up: Kochi Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
Ein toller Ausflug in Kochi
Pünktliche Abholung, kurze Transferzeiten…

August, 2026

Tokyo in One Day: Higashi-ginza Station & Shibuya Station

Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

May, 2025

Tour Itinerary

9:00 Meeting point: Aloft Tokyo Ginza
9:10 Depart Higashi-ginza Station
(Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
Hibiya Station
(Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
9:30 Arrive Otemachi Station
Tokyo Imperial Palace East Gardens
Nijubashi Bridge
10:30 Depart Nijubashimae Station
(Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
Yoyogi-uehara Station
(Odakyu Odawara Line)
Gotokuji Station/Yamashita Station
(Tokyu Setagaya Line)
11:30 Arrive Miyanosaka Station
Gotokuji Temple Gotokuji Temple
12:30 Depart Miyanosaka Station
(Tokyu Setagaya Line)
Gotokuji Station/Yamashita Station
(Odakyu Odawara Line)
Yoyogi-uehara Station
(Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
13:00 Arrive Meiji-jingumae Station
Harajuku Meiji Shrine
Takeshita Street
Cat Street
Omotesando
14:00 Depart Omotesando Station
(Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
14:10 Arrive Shibuya Station
Shibuya Lunch: Tsukiji Sushisei Shibuya Branch
Scramble Square
Center Street
15:30 Depart Shibuya Station
(Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
Ginza Station
(Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
16:00 Arrive Higashi-ginza Station
16:00 Disband: Higashi-ginza Station

Title: What Can You See on a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Including the Imperial Palace, Gotokuji, and Shibuya? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from North America, four people in total. The main purpose of this trip to Japan was to board a cruise ship for a tour around Japan starting the day after next. As one member of the group was studying Japanese history at university, the wish to come to Japan was fulfilled with this visit. They had arrived at Haneda Airport the previous night and taken a taxi to their hotel. They mentioned that they had strolled around the Ginza area the night before. For the next day, they were planning a day trip to Mount Fuji. One of the guests expressed a strong wish, saying they loved cats and really wanted to visit Gotokuji Temple. Unfortunately, it was a tour in the rain. However, the rain stopped in the latter half, and we managed to get through it. First, we headed to the Imperial Palace. We strolled through the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace. There were comments such as "It's a shame we can't see the cherry blossoms" and questions like "When do the cherry blossoms reach full bloom?" I explained about "the history from the Edo period to the Meiji era," "the Meiji Restoration," "why Edo Castle became the Imperial Palace," and "why the capital moved from Kyoto to Tokyo." There were also questions such as "Does the Japanese Emperor hold political power?" and "Were the stone walls all built by hand?" We transferred between the Odakyu Line and the Tokyu Setagaya Line to reach Gotokuji Temple. Despite the rain, it was quite crowded with many foreign tourists. One of the guests said, "I'm so happy my wish came true." They purchased a cat figurine and an ema (votive tablet). We moved to Harajuku and visited Meiji Shrine. I explained about "Shinto," "torii gates," "Emperor Meiji," and "why wine barrels are displayed here." There was also a question, "When and why did Shinto originate?" After this, we strolled along Takeshita Street and Cat Street. They were surprised by the crowds. Then we went to Shibuya. Since everyone loved sushi, we had lunch at a sushi restaurant in Shibuya. They said, "It's truly fresh and delicious. The price is also extremely reasonable." After that, we walked across the Scramble Crossing and took photos looking down from the platform entrance of the Keio Inokashira Line. There was a question, "Why do so many people gather here?" We also took photos in front of the Hachiko statue and strolled through Center Gai. They made comments such as "The streets are clean with no litter," "There are no homeless people to be seen," and "In North America we always traveled by car. This was the first time riding the subway, but it was very comfortable and convenient." However, there was also a comment and question: "Why are there no trash bins on the streets?" Since they felt the transportation network was difficult to understand, I saw them off at Higashi-ginza 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.	Transportation	Route	Fare
Section 1	Subway	Higashi-ginza Station～Otemachi Station	178JPY
Section 2	Subway	Otemachi Station～Gotokuji Station	376JPY
Section 3	Train	Yamashita Station～Miyanosaka Station	160JPY
Section 4	Train	Miyanosaka Station～Yamashita Station	160JPY
Section 5	Subway	Gotokuji Station～Meiji-jingumae Station	325JPY
Section 6	Subway	Omotesando Station～Shibuya Station	178JPY
Section 7	Subway	Shibuya Station～Higashi-ginza Station	209JPY
Total			1,586JPY

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…

August, 2026

Category: Uncategorized