Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Hotel – 10:00 Yanesen – 11:00 Kappabashi Kitchenware Street – 12:00 Asakusa Sensoji Temple – 13:00 Disband at Subway Asakusa Station

    Title: What's a Private Tokyo Walking Tour of Yanaka, Kappabashi, and Asakusa Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group from Europe on what was essentially their first visit to Japan, with one having visited about twenty years earlier, and they were staying for around two weeks. [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) is one of Japan's largest networks of government-licensed, English-speaking private tour guides, serving all 47 prefectures. When I recommended purchasing a PASMO card, none of the guests had Japanese yen in cash, so they bought a one-day unlimited pass valid within Tokyo using a credit card, and we started the tour. After strolling through the Yanesen area, which retains the atmosphere of an old downtown neighborhood, we headed to the Kappabashi kitchenware street. The guests each purchased a kitchen knife, and at a shichimi togarashi (seven-spice) shop in Asakusa they also picked up souvenirs, including gourd-shaped containers. The guests enjoyed what was effectively their first full day in Japan.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayHibiya～Nezu178JPY
    Section 2TrainNippori～Ueno146JPY
    Section 3SubwayUeno～Tawaramachi178JPY
    Total502JPY

    Tour Report by Michio

    Welcome to Japan. My name is Michio, your tour guide in Tokyo and Japan. I was born and grown up in Tokyo, and still living in western suburb of Tokyo with my wife, except for 10 years outside of Japan travelling and living in 60 countries. So I might have visited your country and still remember a few words.
    Japan has unique history, nature and culture, and there are plenty of secrets and wonders behind them such as food culture, Zen and Ninja.
    So please explore and discover the hidden and most beautiful part of Japan together. Let’s experience!

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    Oct 25, 2025
    Carla_G
    Our 4-hour Tokyo walking…
    Viator review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our 4-hour Tokyo walking tour was fantastic! Michio…

    Oct 24, 2025
    410trishab
    ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 10/10 — Outstanding Tour with Michio and Nobuhiko!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Full Day Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle from…

    Oct 11, 2025
    GoPlaces52694049181
    We enjoyed our time in Tokyo with Michio our tour guide.
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We…

    Oct 10, 2025
    PiscesV
    Sushi for breakfast at 630am? Yes please!!
    Tripadvisor review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide…

  • Kanazawa Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kanazawa Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kanazawa Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • AM 09:30 Tour starts from the hotel
    • Travel by bus to Hashibacho
    • AM 10:00-11:00 Higashi Chaya District, Kazuemachi, Utasu Shrine, Shima tour
    • Travel by bus to Kenrokuen-shita
    • PM 11:20-12:00 Kenrokuen Garden tour
    • PM 12:00-12:45 Kanazawa Castle Park, Hishi Yagura, Gojukken Nagaya, Hashizumemon Tsuzuki Yagura tour
    • Travel on foot via Gyokusenin, Oyama Shrine to Nagamachi
    • PM 13:15-14:15 Nagamachi Samurai District stroll, Ashigaru Museum, Nomura Family Residence tour
    • Travel by bus to Omicho
    • PM 14:15-15:00 Omicho Market, lunch
    • PM 15:15 Tour ends at the hotel

    What Is a Private Kanazawa Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe. Because of a missing country code in the phone number, there had initially been some confusion about where the guests were from, but this was later clarified. After reporting to [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/), the guests finally made contact late the night before the tour via a messaging app, and the only change was to the start time. The guests had reserved a 4:00 p.m. Shinkansen departure from Kanazawa, so the tour began on the condition that we would return to the Hotel by 3:00 p.m. without fail. The guests were comfortable with English, and everyone in the group asked a variety of questions. I believe they enjoyed exploring Kanazawa while gaining an understanding of the key points of Japanese culture.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusMusashigatsuji～Hashibacho210JPY
    Section 2BusHashibacho～Kenrokuen-shita210JPY
    Section 3BusNagamachi Samurai District～Omicho100JPY
    Total520JPY

    Tour Report by YOSHI

    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!

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    Sep 29, 2026
    matthewsY2654UC
    Highly recommended!
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Yoshi is an exceptional guide where he took us…

    Sep 28, 2026
    751juergend
    Perfect day in Kanazawa
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Yoshi was the perfect guide, very…

    Sep 27, 2026
    karen_f
    YOSHI san was incredible!
    Viator review: Kanazawa Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    YOSHI met us at our…

    Sep 19, 2026
    Plumb72
    A morning in Kanazawa
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We had a fab tour with Yoshi…

  • Hokkaido in One Day: Maruyama Park & Nakajima Park

    Hokkaido in One Day: Maruyama Park & Nakajima Park

    Sapporo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet up @Hotel
    • 10:45 Maruyama Park (plum & cherry blossom viewing)
    • 12:10 Moerenuma Park
    • 15:00 Nakajima Park
    • 16:15 Disband @Hotel

    What Is a Private Cherry Blossom Park Tour in Sapporo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. They mentioned that where they live it is green all year round, and they wanted to see cherry blossoms on this tour, so the itinerary centered on parks: Maruyama Park, Moerenuma Park, and Nakajima Park. The weather was excellent, and at Maruyama Park the plum blossoms were also at their best, so they were very pleased to see plum and cherry blossoms at the same time. At Moerenuma Park, along with the scenery of the vast grounds, they happily watched the fountain show, sometimes described as an "ice sculpture." The scenery at Nakajima Park, including the cherry blossoms in the Japanese garden, was breathtaking and drew many visitors, and here too the guests were truly moved by the beautiful view. As the guide, I feel this turned out to be a genuinely satisfying tour, both in terms of the locations for viewing the blossoms and the timing. The guests thanked me for guiding them on this tour.

    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～Kanjodori-higashi Station250JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsabu Station～Nakajima Koen Station250JPY
    Total710JPY

    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 in One Day: Tsukiji & Shibuya Scramble Crossing

    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 @ Hotel,
    • 9:45 Tsukiji (Fish Market, Outer Market, Hongan-ji Temple)
    • 11:15 East Gardens of the Imperial Palace
    • 12:30 Meiji Shrine
    • 13:15 Lunch @ Yoshi Soba (Takeshita Street)
    • 13:45 Takeshita Street ~ Omotesando ~ Cat Street ~ Miyashita Park)
    • 14:45 Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • 15:15 Shibuya Station Travel Centre, KINOKUNIYA (Shibuya Scramble Square)
    • 16:30 Dismissal @ Hotel

    Title: What's a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tsukiji, Meiji Shrine, and Shibuya The guests were a group from North America. They had arrived in Japan the day before and planned to stay in Tokyo, then Hakone, and then Kyoto. At Tsukiji, they enjoyed king crab at the fish market and beef skewers in the outer market. Since we spent more time than planned at Tsukiji, we limited our visit at the Imperial Palace to the Ninomaru Garden, which the guests liked very much. At Meiji Shrine, we were able to take photos in front of the paired camphor trees, and the guests also enjoyed the overall atmosphere of the shrine. After lunch, the weather was so nice that we decided to walk all the way to Shibuya. At the Scramble Crossing, I filmed a video of the guests crossing the intersection from the Starbucks, helped them purchase Hakone tickets at the travel center, assisted with shopping at a supermarket, and then saw them off to the Hotel. As one of the guests worked in finance, I received questions about the state of the Japanese economy right up until we parted ways.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayHibiya Line Tsukiji～Chiyoda Line Otemachi178JPY
    Section 2SubwayChiyoda Line Otemachi～Chiyoda Line Meiji-jingumae209JPY
    Section 3SubwayGinza Line Shibuya～Chiyoda Line Hibiya178JPY
    Total565JPY

    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…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Higashi-ginza Station & Tsukiji Station

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Higashi-ginza Station & Tsukiji Station

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    April, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meeting place: Solaria nishitetsu hotel Ginza
    • 10:10 Higashi-ginza Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • Ginza Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 10:50 Arrive at Asakusa Station
    • Asakusa Sensoji Temple
    • Asakusa Shrine
    • Nakamise-dori Shopping Street
    • 12:00 Depart from Asakusa Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Nihombashi Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Tozai Line)
    • 12:30 Arrive at Otemachi Station
    • Tokyo East Gardens of the Imperial Palace
    • Nijubashi Bridge
    • 13:30 Depart from Nijubashimae Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • Hibiya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • 14:00 Arrive at Tsukiji Station
    • Tsukiji Hamarikyu Gardens
    • 14:45 Depart from Tsukiji Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • 15:00 Arrive at Higashi-ginza Station
    • 15:00 Dispersal: Higashi-ginza Station

    Can You Do a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Before a Yokohama Cruise? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Oceania, all of whom were visiting Japan for the first time. Their main purpose in coming to Japan was a 12-day cruise departing from the Port of Yokohama starting the day after next. They were staying in Tokyo for two days before the cruise departure. They had arrived at Narita Airport the previous night, transferring from the Skyliner to the subway to reach their Hotel. Since they arrived late the previous night, they had simply bought food at a convenience store for their meal. It was a pleasant tour under clear, comfortable weather. However, the group could not easily agree among themselves, and before departure there was a bit of a disagreement about whether to go to Hamarikyu Gardens or Shibuya, which was eventually settled by deciding on Hamarikyu Gardens. Along the way, the members of the group somehow kept spreading apart, and it took some effort to keep everyone together. First, we went to Asakusa. As always, it was very crowded. I explained about "Sensoji Temple and the history from Edo to Tokyo," "what the five-story pagoda is," "what Buddhism is," and "the difference between Buddhism and Shinto." We took commemorative photos in front of Kaminarimon Gate and the five-story pagoda. Some of the guests bought a large number of amulets. There were questions such as "How many Buddhists are there in Japan?" "What other religions do people believe in?" and "How often do people who believe in Buddhism go to temples? Do they visit every week?" We strolled slowly through the Nakamise shopping street. One of the guests bought a hat "because it was hot." However, they had a hard time deciding, and it took quite a while before finally settling on one. We then moved to the Imperial Palace. First, we walked through the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace. There were questions such as "It's a shame we can't see the cherry blossoms" and "When is the best time to see the cherry blossoms?" I explained about "the history from the Edo period to the Meiji era," "the Meiji Restoration," "why Edo Castle became the Imperial Palace," and "an overview of the current Imperial Family." There were also questions such as "Does the Emperor of Japan hold any political power?" and "We'd like to take photos of the Imperial Palace. Why can't we go inside the palace?" From Tsukiji Station, with the Tsukiji Outer Market on our left, we moved to Hamarikyu Gardens. The guests said, "We wanted to see a beautiful Japanese garden." There were also comments such as "Japanese people are all quiet and polite" and "The streets are clean and there is no litter scattered around." As the guests said, "We're a bit tired and would like to return to the hotel," I saw them off at Higashi-Ginza Station, and we parted ways.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayHigashi-ginza Station～Asakusa Station209JPY
    Section 2SubwayAsakusa Station～Otemachi Station178JPY
    Section 3SubwayNijubashimae Station～Tsukiji Station178JPY
    Section 4SubwayTsukiji Station～Higashi-ginza Station178JPY
    Total743JPY

    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.

    Request Booking

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

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

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

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

  • Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa & Akihabara then head to Shimbashi

    Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa & Akihabara then head to Shimbashi

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:20 Meet at Meiji Jingu-mae Harajuku
    • Meiji Jingu sightseeing
    • 9:10 Take the Oedo Line and Namboku Line from Yoyogi Station
    • 9:40 University of Tokyo Faculty of Agriculture (Hachi and the professor), Nezu Shrine, stroll around the Yanaka area (Snake Path, tsuiji-bei wall, Yoshida Sake Shop, SCAI The Bathhouse)
    • 11:30-12:30 Lunch at Hantei
    • Take the Chiyoda Line and Ginza Line
    • 12:50-13:45 Asakusa sightseeing
    • Take the Tsukuba Express
    • 14:00-14:25 Stroll around Akihabara then head to Shimbashi
    • 14:45 Disband at Shimbashi

    Title: What Is a Private Tokyo Rail-Themed Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe who mentioned that they worked for a railway company and seemed very interested in Japan's rail systems. Since they wanted to make the most of their morning, we arranged to meet on-site at Meiji-jingumae. After that, I made a point of riding as many different types of train lines as possible on the way to each destination. For lunch we enjoyed kushiage, but since fish was not an option for them, the fish items were swapped for vegetables and other ingredients. At Nezu Shrine, the azalea festival had already ended, but the flowers were still beautiful. We had originally planned to finish the tour in Asakusa, but since the guests did not do any shopping or street-food snacking, we finished earlier, so I suggested taking the Tsukuba Express to Akihabara. After finishing at Shimbashi, I suggested a route riding the Yurikamome and then taking the Yurakucho Line from Shin-Kiba back to Ikebukuro Station.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassYoyogi Station～Todai-mae900JPY
    Section 2Free PassNippori～Nezu0JPY
    Section 3Free PassNezu～Asakusa0JPY
    Section 4TrainTsukuba Express Asakusa～Akihabara210JPY
    Section 5Free PassAkihabara～Shimbashi0JPY
    Total1,110JPY

    Tour Report by Maki

    Hello!
    I’m Maki. Nice to meet you.
    I used to work at a travel agency as a tour escort so I have traveled to more than 50 countries and all 47 prefectures in Japan.
    When I came back to Japan from abroad, I always noticed virtues in Japan anew.
    I’m thrilled to introduce such kinds of stories and favorite places to you.
    I like bar hopping, cooking, history, and outdoor activities such as camping, cycling.
    I have a licence of International Sake Sommlier and Wine Expert. I’m happy if I would have a chance to introduce you about sake and wine.
    I’m also a mother of junior high school girl. Let’s have fun together!

    Request Booking

    Oct 9, 2025
    301catherinep
    Fabulous customised tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Maki is a wonderful, well informed guide. She customised…

    Oct 2, 2025
    Gene L
    Our 6 hour tour with Maki was fantastic
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    My wife and…

    Aug 31, 2025
    T
    tmay2921
    Maki is the best!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had an absolutely wonderful day exploring…

    Jul 12, 2025
    O6400ONsaram
    Maki san kakkoii desu
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Maki was generous and flexible! She met us…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    April, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 08:55 Meet@Hotel Ginza PREMIER
    • 2. 09:15 Travel∶Subway
    • 3. 10:15 Stay@Tokyo Metropolitan Government South Observatory
    • 4. 11:25 Travel∶Subway
    • 5. 12:00 Stay@Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 6. 12:45 Lunch@Sushizanmai Annex
    • 7. 13:55 Travel∶Subway
    • 8. 14:20 Stay@Ueno Park
    • 9. 14:45 Travel∶Subway
    • 10. 15:10 Disband@Asakusa Kokusai-dori

    Title: What's a Private Full-Day Tour of Tokyo Like for Visitors? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. Since some in the group needed to walk slowly, we looked for elevators and escalators along the way and took our time when moving between locations. [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) is one of Japan's largest networks of government-licensed, English-speaking private tour guides, serving all 47 prefectures. The guests had also booked several other spot tours around Tokyo, so before starting, we consulted together and planned the itinerary on the spot, being careful not to overlap with the places they would visit on other days. After hearing about their plans, I found that among the major spots, only Tsukiji was not yet included in their schedule, so I decided to guide them there during lunchtime. Tokyo Tower was already on their itinerary, but I thought the South Observatory of the Metropolitan Government Building would offer a different view, so I guided them there first. Recently the South Observatory has become popular, and depending on the time of day, the wait can be more than 30 minutes. Since the guests had booked a tea room experience class in Asakusa for that evening, I decided to take them to Ueno Park, which is close to Asakusa, at the end. However, by that time they seemed tired, and I received a request to move closer to the tea room experience venue earlier than planned, so I gave a brief explanation of Ueno Park, took them near the venue, and we parted ways there.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassGinza Station～Tochomae Station900JPY
    Section 2Free PassTochomae Station～Tsukijishijo Station0JPY
    Section 3Free PassTsukiji Station～Ueno Station0JPY
    Section 4Free PassUeno Station～Tawaramachi Station0JPY
    Total900JPY

    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…

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    April, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • ①　11:00　Meet at Hotel
    • ②　11:05　Explanation of itinerary and history of Kyoto
    • ③　11:40　Nijo Castle
    • ④　13:00　Daisen-in (about karesansui and wabi-cha)
    • ⑤　14:45　Stroll and shopping at Nishiki Market (lunch skipped)
    • ⑥　16:00　Stroll through Pontocho, Tatsumi Bridge, and Shinbashi
    • ⑦　16:45　Yasaka Pagoda (Hokan-ji) and stroll along Ishibei-koji
    • ⑧　17:30　Disband in front of Yasaka Shrine

    Title: What's a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like During Golden Week? A Licensed Guide's Report on Hidden Gems The guests were visiting Kyoto for the first time, coming from Europe. They had not decided on a destination and left it open, so on the day, since it was the middle of the Golden Week holiday, I proposed avoiding the most crowded spots and suggested we visit some hidden gems instead. The guests said they had wandered around on their own the day before but had been overwhelmed by the sheer number of tourists. Nijo Castle can hardly be called a hidden gem, so at first they were reluctant, but I intentionally took them there and explained Japanese history, especially the relationship between the emperor and the shogun, before touring the castle. I was able to talk at length about the shogun now familiar from films and about the Meiji Restoration. At Daisen-in, I explained the karesansui dry landscape garden, wabi-cha, the concept of wabi-sabi, and also onmyodo and feng shui. Since one can enjoy matcha and sweets there for 300 yen, I briefly explained how to enjoy the tea ceremony, and as I myself occasionally practice zazen meditation at Daisen-in, I explained various aspects of the actual practice of zazen. As it happened, they had a tea ceremony booked for the next day, so they listened with even greater interest and were very pleased. After having the matcha, one of the guests said, "This is what travel is all about," and was so moved they became a little tearful, which made me feel very honored and glad I had done my best to explain everything. Both of them follow a plant-based diet, but they enjoyed looking around Nishiki Market at all sorts of things. One of them bought some peanuts and gave them to me, saying they were crazy about nuts. They told me that they had walked around Gion on their own the day before but had no idea where to go, so it had felt pointless, so I guided them to Pontocho, Tatsumi Bridge and Shinbashi Street, and other quintessentially Gion spots, as well as the Yasaka Pagoda. I explained the history of Gion, the history of the geiko, and their daily lives. They were moved by the famous view looking down from above the Yasaka Pagoda (see attached photo).

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

    Tour Report by Kazu

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

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

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

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

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

  • Niigata in One Day: Shimizu-en & Niigata Furusato Village

    Niigata in One Day: Shimizu-en & Niigata Furusato Village

    Niigata Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    April, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30　　　　　 Niigata West Port Yamanoshita Wharf　Welcome 9 guests in front of Azamara Pursuit
    • 　　　　　　　Bandai Taxi 2 chartered vehicles
    • 8:30―9:10　　 Travel
    • 9:10―10:00　　Projection mapping, kagami-biraki experience, tasting, etc. at Omon Shuzo
    • 10:10―11:00　 Shimizu-en
    • 11:20―12:00　 Shibata Castle
    • 12:15―13:15　 Lunch (in Shibata City, Kuidokoro Satomi)
    • 14:00―14:30　 Niigata Furusato Village (souvenir shop)
    • 14:45 　　　　 Disband at Niigata West Port Yamanoshita Wharf

    What Is a Private Cruise Excursion Tour in Niigata Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group of visitors who arrived in Niigata on a cruise excursion. Since they requested chartering two private taxis, I personally searched for a taxi company in Niigata City and made the reservation under my name, and it happened to be a taxi company partnered with [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/). As I had also taken on a job with a vehicle arranged through [Japan Guide Agency](https://www.j-g-a.org/) just two weeks earlier, in April, communication with the taxi company went smoothly, which was very helpful. The day before, one of the guests had sprained an ankle, so in the end we departed with the guests, myself, and two drivers. It rained on and off from the morning, but the morning itinerary proceeded as planned. Around lunchtime, the guests mentioned that they wanted to shop for locally made "very sharp knives," so on the driver's suggestion we decided to visit a local products hall where all kinds of Niigata goods are available. As the wind and rain grew stronger in the afternoon, changing our destination to the products hall turned out to be a good decision. The representative guest paid the taxi company in cash for both taxis, and the tour came to an end. The representative guest runs a travel company in North America and occasionally gathers acquaintances to travel as a group, partly for research purposes. They look for guides in each place they visit and arrange private tours. This time, they mentioned it was a shame that they had been unable to find private guides in Kitakyushu, Sasebo, and Sakaiminato. As I also wrote in my previous tour report, I keenly felt that regional cities in Japan still lack guides. It is truly unfortunate to have to turn down such demand when it exists. As cruise ship port calls are expected to increase further and the demand for guides in regional cities grows, I would appreciate it if consideration could be given to a travel expense subsidy, so that guides from major cities such as Tokyo could be dispatched to regional areas and share the appeal of Japan in those regions as well.

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

    Tour Report by KAYOKO

    Hello. I’m Kayoko. I’m registered as a National Licensed Guide Interpreter by Tokyo Metropolitan City Government.
    I had been living in Yamagata City, 400 kilometers north up to Tokyo for 1 and 3 months, and now just have come back to Tokyo. I really enjoyed living in Yamagata.
    My hobby is horse riding and playing some musical instruments such as piano, clarinet, euphonium and tuba.
    Thanks to my riding experience, I had a special opportunity to do volunteer works at 2020 Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games in the equestrian venue in Tokyo.
    I am also a certified kimono instructor and can help you dress in the traditional Japanese kimono.
    I’m really looking forward to meeting you.

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    Sep 9, 2026
    Adrian_H
    Day trip in Niigata
    Viator review: Niigata Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    fantastic guide who went to…

    May 28, 2025
    X3079KNdeans
    Sado Island Experience
    Tripadvisor review: Japan Guide Agency
    Sado Island was a beautiful place with many attractions and sites to see.…

  • Kyoto: Todai-ji Temple & Toshodai-ji Temple

    Kyoto: Todai-ji Temple & Toshodai-ji Temple

    Nara Day Trip from Kyoto: Customized Tour, Licensed Guide

    April, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Meet Seioro
    • 10:20 to 11:10 Todai-ji Temple
    • 11:40 to 12:10 Nigatsudo Hall
    • 12:30 to 13:20 Kasuga Taisha Shrine
    • 13:50 to 14:30　 Kofuku-ji Temple
    • 15:00 to 15:30　 Heijo Palace Site
    • 16:00 to 16:40　 Toshodai-ji Temple
    • 17:10 Disband Kintetsu Saidaiji Station

    Title: Can You Do a Private Day Tour of Nara Park? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. To make sure the tour could be completed smoothly across the wide grounds of Nara Park, I planned the day so that we relied more on buses than on walking. We also used taxis twice during the tour. As a result, we were able to complete the tour without any trouble. After we parted ways, I felt relieved that everything had gone well.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKeihan Kiyomizu-Gojo～Keihan Tambabashi220JPY
    Section 2TrainKintetsu Tambabashi～Kintetsu Nara680JPY
    Section 3BusKintetsu Nara～Todai-ji Temple, Kasuga Taisha Shrine250JPY
    Section 4BusIn front of Kasuga Taisha Main Hall～Kenchomae250JPY
    Section 5BusSuzakumon Plaza～Yamato-Saidaiji250JPY
    Section 6TrainKintetsu Nishinokyo～Kintetsu Yamato-Saidaiji180JPY
    Total1,830JPY

    Tour Report by Haru

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

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

    Let’s enjoy Japan with me !!

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

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

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

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