Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo in One Day: Sakuragicho & Motomachi Chinatown

    Tokyo in One Day: Sakuragicho & Motomachi Chinatown

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:30- Meet at the hotel across from Yokohama City Hall.
    • 11:00-【Sakuragicho→Ueno/JR580】
    • 12:00-Ueno Park/
    • 13:00- Ameyoko/
    • 14:00- Around Shibuya Station/
    • 15:00-16:00 Meiji Shrine/
    • 16:30-17:00 Harajuku/
    • 18:15-18:30 Motomachi Chinatown

    Title: Can You Do a Private Pre-Cruise Tokyo and Yokohama Day Tour Before a Yokohama Cruise? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. This was a pre-tour before their cruise, which was scheduled to depart from Yokohama Port a few days later. They wished to sightsee within Tokyo but return to Yokohama, and requested to be taken to Chinatown. At Ueno, the early-flowering cherry blossoms near the Hirokoji exit were already in full bloom, and we enjoyed taking photographs. At their request, we headed to the Hachiko crossing in Shibuya. Afterwards, we went to Shibuya Yokocho beneath Miyashita Park. Just as we stepped outside from the passage inside the venue, the guests happened to run into a friend who was also visiting from North America. It had been several years since they had last seen each other, and both were delighted by the coincidence. We then strolled along Takeshita Street and the backstreets of Harajuku, and traveled via subway to Motomachi. I explained the location of their accommodation and other details, and the tour ended.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainSakuragicho~Ueno580JPY
    Section 2SubwayUeno~Shibuya210JPY
    Section 3TrainShibuya~Harajuku150JPY
    Section 4TrainMeiji-jingumae~Motomachi・Chukagai720JPY
    Total1,660JPY

    Hello, Bonjour, Buongiorno!

    I’m Kei, Keisuke YAMAMOTO, japanese freelance Government-licensed guide and interpreter in French and in English, speaking Italian as well. Having accompanied guests to all over Japan by now with whole 47 prefectures, all year round. 11 years and over 1500 days of experience as a professional guide since 2015, after 24 years of work at French Tourist Board in Tokyo in charge of promotion and marketing.
    * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
    Je suis Kei, Keisuke YAMAMOTO, guide-interprète indépendant japonais, agréé par le gouvernement en langues française et anglaise, parlant également italien. Ayant accompagné des clients dans tout le Japon avec se 47 départements, toute l’année. 11 ans et plus de 1500 jours d’expérience en tant que guide professionel depuis 2015, après 24 ans de travail à l’Office de Tourisme Français à Tokyo en charge de la promotion et du marketing.
    * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
    Sono Kei, Keisuke YAMAMOTO, un guida-interprete indipendente giappone e approvato dal governo per le lingue francese e inglese, parlo italiano anche. Avo accompagno i clienti in tutto il Giappone, con sue 47 province, tutto l’anno. 10 anni e piu di 1500 journi di esperienza come guida professionista dal 2015, dopo 24 anni di lavoro presso l’Ufficio del Turismo francese a Tokyo come responsabile della promozione e del marketing.
    * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
    Having lived mostly in Kawasaki city attached to Tokyo in the West, I have a good knowledge and profound experience of Tokyo and its surrounding areas such as Mount Fuji, Hakone and Kamakura or Nikko.
    A history lover and food lover, qualified as JSA Wine Expert, I’d like to help you choosing good restaurants and good drinks including Sake.
    Let’s go together for a delightful discovery in Japan.
    * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
    Ayant vécu principalement dans la ville de Kawasaki rattachée à Tokyo à l’Ouest, j’ai une bonne connaissance et une profonde expérience de Tokyo et de ses environs comme le Mont Fuji, Hakone et Kamakura ou Nikko.
    Passionné d’histoire et de gastronomie, diplômé JSA Wine Expert, j’aimerais vous aider à choisir de bons restaurants et de bonnes boissons dont le Saké.
    Partons ensemble pour une délicieuse découverte du Japon.
    * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
    Avendo vissuto principalmente nella città di Kawasaki, vicina a Tokyo, ho una buona conoscenza e una profonda esperienza di Tokyo e dei suoi dintorni, come il Monte Fuji, Hakone e Kamakura o Nikko.
    Appassionato di storia e gastronomia, laureato Wine Expert presso la JSA, vorrei aiutarvi a scegliere buoni ristoranti e buoni bevande, tra cui il sakè.
    Partiamo insieme per una deliziosa scoperta del Giappone.

    Jun 5, 2025
    Jenan_A
    Lovely experience but expensive
    Viator review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide
    What a lovely…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Tokyo Station Marunouchi Building & East Exit 3D Cat

    Tokyo in One Day: Tokyo Station Marunouchi Building & East Exit 3D Cat

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at the hotel lobby
    • 10:10-10:30 Travel from Shinjuku Station to Tokyo Station
    • 10:30-11:00 Tokyo Station Marunouchi Building → Gyoko-dori Avenue → Wadakura Fountain Park → Entrance to the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace
    • 11:00-12:30 Tour of the East Gardens → Hirakawa Gate → Takebashi Station (Tozai Line)
    • 12:30-13:00 Takebashi Station → Asakusa Station (Ginza Line)
    • 13:00-13:40 Lunch at Gonpachi Asakusa Azumabashi
    • 13:40- 15:30 Asakusa sightseeing: Sumida River from Azumabashi Bridge → Tourist Information Center → Kaminarimon Gate → Nakamise → Sensoji Temple → Asakusa Shrine → Shiranami Gonin Otoko → Kannon-dori Street
    • 15:30-16:00 Asakusa Station (Ginza Line) → Shibuya
    • 16:00-16:20 Hachiko, Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • 16:20-16:50 JR Shibuya Station → JR Shinjuku Station
    • 16:50-17:00 East Exit 3D Cat → Godzilla Head → Omoide Yokocho
    • 17:15 Tour ends in front of the Hotel

    Title: What Is a Full-Day Private Tour from Shinjuku Through the Imperial Palace, Asakusa, and Shibuya Like? A Licensed Guide's Report On the way from JR Shinjuku Station toward Tokyo Station, near Ochanomizu, I explained that a certain building was a medical university, and one of the guests mentioned having also worked in medicine back in North America. When asked how many years medical school takes in Japan, I answered six years plus an internship, and they said it was the same where they were from. The guests had relocated to North America. Since a medical license from their home country could not be used there, one of them had studied psychology at a university and now works mainly as a counselor for children, while another works in social services. When they spoke to each other, they used their native language. At the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, where just a few days earlier there had been almost no color in the garden, today the peach blossoms, weeping cherry, and white cherry blossoms were in full bloom and at their best, and the guests happily took many photos. They also listened with great interest to the history of the imperial family and the Imperial Palace. We strolled slowly through the East Gardens, exited from the Hirakawa Gate, and moved from Takebashi Station to Asakusa. For lunch, I had reserved a restaurant near Azumabashi, so we were seated without waiting. Everyone ordered what they liked and enjoyed the meal, saying it was delicious. When customers arrived, the staff called out a loud greeting of welcome, and the guests asked what it meant; they seemed to like the bright and brisk service. After lunch, we looked at the Sumida River from Azumabashi, but the cherry blossoms there had not yet opened. At Nakamise, the guests purchased various souvenirs. One wanted to buy a T-shirt as a gift, and another wanted a white mug with "Japan" written on it. Fortunately, we found what they were looking for and were able to buy them. They listened with interest to the history of Senso-ji Temple, and mentioned that there are also indigenous beliefs in their home region. At Asakusa Shrine, we prayed together following the proper worship etiquette. On the way back toward the station along Kannon-dori, we found another souvenir shop they liked and bought a few small souvenirs, noting that it was cheaper there than at Nakamise. One of the guests also liked a haori displayed in front of a shop and purchased it. We had originally planned to visit Meiji Shrine and Harajuku from Asakusa, but since they had shopped at a leisurely pace and were tired, we took the Ginza Line to Shibuya to see the Hachiko statue and the Shibuya crossing. They knew the American film about Hachiko starring Richard Gere and were delighted. When we boarded the Yamanote Line to return from Shibuya to Shinjuku, service was suspended due to an accident at Shinjuku. So we transferred to the Saikyo Line and, pushing through the crowded Shinjuku Station, somehow made it out to the East Exit. The 3D cat screen had many advertisements other than the cat, so we wrapped that up, took photos on Godzilla Street, passed through Omoide Yokocho, and finished the sightseeing. We walked from the West Exit to the front of the Hotel near the South Exit, where the tour ended. The guests were tired but seemed satisfied to have visited Tokyo's representative sights. They said they would go sightseeing at Mount Fuji the next day and return home the day after.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainJR Shinjuku Station~JR Tokyo Station210JPY
    Section 2SubwayTakebashi Station~Asakusa Station (Ginza Line)210JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa Station (Ginza Line)~Shibuya Station (Ginza Line)260JPY
    Section 4TrainJR Shibuya Station~JR Shinjuku Station170JPY
    Total850JPY

    My name is Midori Katayama. I have been working as a national licensed English-speaking tour guide since 2024. I have guided group bus tours as well as FIT guests. I truly enjoy showing visitors from overseas the wonderful places in Japan and sharing our culture with them.

    I live in Kanagawa Prefecture, which is located just south of Tokyo and offers great sightseeing destinations such as Yokohama, Kamakura, and Hakone. There are four people in my family—my husband, my son, and my mother. My son has already moved out and lives on his own, so now the three of us live together.

    I also study tea ceremony, and I look forward to sharing Japanese culture with all of you.
    Thank you very much, and I hope to see you soon.

    Apr 27, 2025
    202travelor
    Magical birthday!
    Tripadvisor review: Yokohama 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Middy arranged a bespoke day in Yokohama for my husband’s…

    Sep 22, 2024
    M-N-M-FAB4
    Perfect Day And we saw Mt Fuji
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone 8 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a pleasant…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Kinkaku-ji

    Kyoto in One Day: Kinkaku-ji

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:10 Meet @ Hotel Kyoto
    • 10:15-10:40 Travel by taxi
    • 10:50-12:00 Sightseeing at Kinkaku-ji
    • 12:10-12:45 Travel by taxi
    • 13:00-14:00 Sightseeing at Kennin-ji, 800 yen
    • 14:10-14:50 Stroll around Yasui Konpira-gu Shrine, Yasaka Pagoda, etc.
    • 15:05-15:25 Travel by taxi
    • 15:30 Disband @ Hotel Kyoto

    Title: What Is a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Kinkaku-ji, Kennin-ji, and Yasaka Pagoda I guided a group visiting from North America. The guests came with a variety of needs and preferences, so it was difficult to finalize a specific itinerary before departure, and the requests changed several times. In the end, we agreed to simply go wherever the guests wished, and we started the day that way. We first visited Kinkaku-ji, where we took commemorative photos with the golden reliquary hall shining in the background. I made an effort to cover the main highlights efficiently while keeping walking distances in mind. Next, at Kennin-ji, the guests relaxed in the spacious temple grounds, and they were especially intrigued by the dry landscape (karesansui) garden. Afterward, we stopped by Yasui Konpiragu, where we saw the famous stone monument, which the guests found particularly interesting. Finally, I guided them to the Yasaka Pagoda before we returned to the hotel by taxi.

    Hello! I am Andy Murao. I love this job as I can visit various destinations with the people from all over the world. I am always thinking that I could help you know more about Japan and understand the attractiveness of Japan.

    I would like to provide a tour in accordance with your request and preference. Please let me know what you want to see, eat, experience, etc. and then I will propose a schedule based on them.

    There is one point to note. I like walking very much, so I might be a guide who forces you to take long walks.

    I look forward to attending you in Japan.

    Best regards,

    Andy Murao

    Jul 13, 2026
    webstere2025
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Excellent
    Andy(Atsushi) was great and communicated with us beforehand about our…

    Jun 21, 2026
    Catherine_D
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    First time in Osaka
    Andy was great . On time and patience…

    Jun 6, 2026
    eyeessess
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Early Morning Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour!
    Andy Murao was an amazing and wonderful tour guide.…

    Jun 5, 2026
    Janice_W
    Viator review: Kyoto 9hr Private Tour (Kobe Dep. ) with Licensed Guide
    Great tour of Kyoto
    It was a good tour…

  • Mt. Fuji View Shimizu Customized Tour

    Mt. Fuji View Shimizu Customized Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • Shimizu Port 9:00 → Orix Rent-a-Car 9:30 → Kunozan Toshogu Shrine Entrance and Strawberry House 10:30 → Yume Terrace 11:30 → Moriuchi Tea Farm 14:40 → Orix Rent-a-Car 15:20 → Coco's 15:45 → Shimizu Port 16:00

    Title: What's a Private Car Tour of Shizuoka Like from the Port? A Licensed Guide's Report Prior to the tour, it had been arranged at the guest's request that they would rent a car and drive around themselves. Initially, a rental car shop near Higashi-Shizuoka Station had been booked online, but considering the round-trip time to and from the port, this seemed likely to result in a considerable loss of time. Therefore, on the condition that I, the guide, would accompany them and interpret, we were specially able to change the arrangement so that the car could be picked up and returned at a branch located inside a gas station within walking distance of the port. As one of the guests had become unwell with seasickness, the tour was conducted with a single guest. I introduced the famous Kuno strawberries of Shizuoka and guided them to the entrance of Kunozan. We then enjoyed a drive up to Nihondaira, where the cherry blossoms had come into considerable bloom, and headed for the Yume Terrace. Unfortunately, it was cloudy and Mount Fuji was not visible, but we could take in a sweeping view of Suruga Bay, including Miho, and the city of Shizuoka. After this, at the guest's strong request to see the rural Japanese landscape, we headed to Moriuchi Tea Farm, where they were greatly moved by the tea fields. They listened intently to the explanation of the four kinds of tea served there and were able to interact with other visitors from North America and Europe who were also present. Reluctantly leaving the tea farm, we safely returned the rental car, had some tea at a family restaurant, and returned to the port. I was able to guide the guest to the places they had wished to see, and the guest was very pleased, which I felt was truly wonderful.

    I have been teaching high school students for 40 years as an English teacher and guiding for 10years including a volunteer guide .Now I am a national government licensed guide. I have been dreaming to introduce Japanese culture including tasty Japanese food and history , our society and also some problems in it. It is a great moment of joy and excitement to be with you from all over the world. I love traveling around Japan and abroad myself. I visited East Germany ,too that does not exist any more. I am looking forward to guiding you in and around Shizuoka!

    Jul 26, 2026
    Edward_H
    Viator review: Shimizu Shore Excursion: Mt. Fuji View Tour, Licensed Guide
    The only way to tour if…
    The only way to…

    Jun 30, 2026
    Louisa_B
    Viator review: Shizuoka/Shimizu Mt Fuji View 6 hr Private Tour: Guide Only
    My Fuji Experience and temple visit
    Great trip out…

    Apr 14, 2026
    Bret_F
    Viator review: Shizuoka/Shimizu Mt Fuji View 6 hr Private Tour: Guide Only
    Great Shizuoka Area Experience
    We enjoyed a memorable day…

    Mar 27, 2026
    James_M
    Viator review: Shizuoka/Shimizu Mt Fuji View 6 hr Private Tour: Guide Only
    Loved are guide.
    Great tour guide. We loved her…

  • Hyogo in Half a Day: Maiko

    Hyogo in Half a Day: Maiko

    Tour Itinerary

    • 12:50 Meet up @JR Maiko Station
    • 13:00-14:30 Bridge Memorial Hall, Maiko Park Promenade sightseeing
    • 14:48-14:54 Maiko→Kobe 320 yen JR
    • 15:00-16:45 Stroll around Harborland, Meriken Park
    • 17:00 Disband @Kobe Kisshokichi Main Store

    What Is a Private Day Tour of Kobe and the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge Like? A Licensed Guide's Report I guided a group visiting from North America. We first visited the Bridge Exhibition Center, where I explained the construction technology and history of the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge. The group showed great interest in the exhibits, with some of the guests actively asking questions and showing genuine curiosity. Next, we walked along the Maiko Park Sea Promenade and enjoyed the spectacular views of the Akashi Strait. The group was impressed by the scenery from above the sea and took plenty of photos as they strolled. Afterward, we visited Harborland and Meriken Park, where the group enjoyed the scenery of Kobe Port and strolled freely. Everyone in the group was very talkative, and the atmosphere remained lively and pleasant throughout. At the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake Memorial, I explained the damage caused by the earthquake and the recovery that followed, and the guests listened attentively. After the tour, I took them to a restaurant famous for Kobe beef for dinner and saw them off safely. The group enjoyed Japan's technology, history, and scenery, and appeared satisfied and smiling throughout the day.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainMaiko~Kobe320JPY
    Total320JPY

    Hello! I am Andy Murao. I love this job as I can visit various destinations with the people from all over the world. I am always thinking that I could help you know more about Japan and understand the attractiveness of Japan.

    I would like to provide a tour in accordance with your request and preference. Please let me know what you want to see, eat, experience, etc. and then I will propose a schedule based on them.

    There is one point to note. I like walking very much, so I might be a guide who forces you to take long walks.

    I look forward to attending you in Japan.

    Best regards,

    Andy Murao

    Jul 13, 2026
    webstere2025
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Excellent
    Andy(Atsushi) was great and communicated with us beforehand about our…

    Jun 21, 2026
    Catherine_D
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    First time in Osaka
    Andy was great . On time and patience…

    Jun 6, 2026
    eyeessess
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Early Morning Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour!
    Andy Murao was an amazing and wonderful tour guide.…

    Jun 5, 2026
    Janice_W
    Viator review: Kyoto 9hr Private Tour (Kobe Dep. ) with Licensed Guide
    Great tour of Kyoto
    It was a good tour…

  • Osaka in Half a Day: Tennoji & Namba

    Osaka in Half a Day: Tennoji & Namba

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meet @ Hotel
    • 9:40-9:45 Tennoji → Dobutsuen-mae
    • 10:00-11:10 Shinsekai sightseeing (Tsutenkaku, etc.)
    • 10:39-10:52 Ebisucho → Morinomiya, Sakaisuji Line 240 yen
    • 11:00-12:00 Osaka Castle Park sightseeing
    • 12:09-12:19 Osaka Business Park → Shinsaibashi, Nagahori Tsurumi-ryokuchi Line 240 yen
    • 12:25-12:40 Stroll around the Dotonbori area
    • 12:45-14:10 Lunch @ New Matsusaka Namba Midosuji Store
    • 14:18-14:25 Namba → Tennoji, Midosuji Line 190 yen
    • 14:30 Disperse @ Hotel

    What Does a Private Osaka Day Tour Look Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Shinsekai, Osaka Castle, and Dotonbori The guests were visitors from North America. We first visited the Shinsekai area and strolled through the traditional downtown atmosphere of Osaka. I considered guiding them up to the observation deck of Tsutenkaku Tower, but since the view from their accommodation was better, we limited it to a walk around the streets. They were interested in the Showa-era retro atmosphere and the unique signboards, and thoroughly enjoyed the local culture. Next we visited Osaka Castle, focusing our tour on the main keep. They showed interest in Toyotomi Hideyoshi and the history of Osaka, and were especially impressed by the grandeur of the castle structure and the construction of the stone walls. With the cherry blossom season approaching, they also enjoyed the surrounding scenery. Finally, we strolled around the Dotonbori area and took commemorative photos in front of the famous Glico signboard. They fully enjoyed the lively streetscape, and for lunch we shared teppanyaki together at a restaurant. They were very satisfied with the taste of the wagyu beef grilled right in front of them, and were also impressed by the chef's performance.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayTennoji~Dobutsuen-mae620JPY
    Section 2SubwayEbisucho~Morinomiya0JPY
    Section 3SubwayOsaka Business Park~Shinsaibashi0JPY
    Section 4SubwayNamba~Tennoji0JPY
    Total620JPY

    Hello! I am Andy Murao. I love this job as I can visit various destinations with the people from all over the world. I am always thinking that I could help you know more about Japan and understand the attractiveness of Japan.

    I would like to provide a tour in accordance with your request and preference. Please let me know what you want to see, eat, experience, etc. and then I will propose a schedule based on them.

    There is one point to note. I like walking very much, so I might be a guide who forces you to take long walks.

    I look forward to attending you in Japan.

    Best regards,

    Andy Murao

    Jul 13, 2026
    webstere2025
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Excellent
    Andy(Atsushi) was great and communicated with us beforehand about our…

    Jun 21, 2026
    Catherine_D
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    First time in Osaka
    Andy was great . On time and patience…

    Jun 6, 2026
    eyeessess
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Early Morning Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour!
    Andy Murao was an amazing and wonderful tour guide.…

    Jun 5, 2026
    Janice_W
    Viator review: Kyoto 9hr Private Tour (Kobe Dep. ) with Licensed Guide
    Great tour of Kyoto
    It was a good tour…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 9:45 Meet up@MITSUI GARDEN NIHONBASHI PREMIE
    • 2. 10:20 @Chidorigafuchi + Tayasumon
    • 3. 11:00 @Asakusa ("Sansada", Nakamise-dori, Sensoji Temple, Asakusa Shrine, "Kaminari Issa", Sumida Park)
    • 4. 13:20 @Ginza (4-chome Intersection, Mitsukoshi, itoya)
    • 5. 14:30 @Imperial Palace (Sakuradamon, Nijubashi, Main Gate)
    • 6. 15:30 Lunch@inside Shibuya FUKURAS
    • 7. 16:50 Disband@MITSUI GARDEN NIHONBASHI PREMIE

    What Can You See on a Rainy Cherry-Blossom-Season Private Day Tour of Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests had already traveled through Kyoto and Takayama in Japan, including a two-day stay in Asia beforehand, and had arrived in Tokyo the previous day, enjoying dinner with a friend. After this Tokyo tour, they were scheduled to return to Oceania on an evening flight. Today, considering that it had unfortunately turned rainy and cold, while the cherry blossoms that had just begun to bloom were coming into their best viewing period, we adjusted our plans and enjoyed a stroll. Furthermore, since the guests spent plenty of time shopping for souvenirs at shops they found along the way, the result was a change from the originally planned itinerary. First, taking advantage of the fact that we were able to meet about 15 minutes early, we headed to Chidorigafuchi and viewed the cherry blossoms blooming toward the water of the moat. Together with the Tayasumon Gate, they were deeply moved by the beautiful scenery and took many photographs. In Asakusa, as soon as we arrived, the guests caught the scent of tempura (the aroma of sesame oil) from the long-established shop "Sansada," bought a shrimp kakiage, and enjoyed it on a bench in front of the shop. On Nakamise Street, they purchased five children's jinbei as souvenirs. They also tried mitarashi dango and sweet red bean dango. At "Kaminari Issa," the guests, being great fans of matcha, wanted to try a hojicha sweet, and enjoyed a hojicha ice cream with hojicha warabimochi and an 8-gram strong-brew matcha latte (no sugar). At home in Oceania, the guests reportedly buy 4 kilograms of matcha and drink it for their health, saying that drinking matcha makes them feel good. In Ginza, when I introduced Itoya, which we had intended only to pass by, as "a wonderful stationery shop," the guests said they would love to stop in. They purchased a pencil case full of clever ideas as a souvenir. They seemed interested in Harajuku and Shinjuku as well, but decided to save those for a future visit to Japan, so we had a late lunch in Shibuya and headed to the Hotel.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassTokyo Metro Ginza Line Mitsukoshimae Station~Tozai Line Kudanshita Station700JPY
    Section 2Free PassTokyo Metro Tozai Line Kudanshita Station~Ginza Line Asakusa Station0JPY
    Section 3Free PassTokyo Metro Ginza Line Asakusa Station~Ginza Station0JPY
    Section 4Free PassTokyo Metro Yurakucho Line Ginza-itchome Station~Sakuradamon Station0JPY
    Section 5Free PassTokyo Metro Chiyoda Line Nijubashimae Station~Ginza Line Shibuya Station0JPY
    Section 6Free PassTokyo Metro Ginza Line Shibuya Station~Mitsukoshimae Station0JPY
    Total700JPY

    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
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Full Day Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle from Yokohama
    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!…

  • Hyogo: Akashi Kaikyo Bridge & Nankinmachi

    Hyogo: Akashi Kaikyo Bridge & Nankinmachi

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:30 Meet @ Kobe Port Terminal
    • 09:00 @ Akashi Kaikyo Bridge
    • 11:00 @ Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum
    • 11:45 @ Kikumasamune Sake Brewery Museum
    • 12:30 @ Nunobiki Herb Garden
    • 13:45 @ Nankinmachi
    • 14:30 Dismiss @ Kobe Port Terminal

    What's a Private Kobe Day Tour Like in Cherry Blossom Season? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group from North America. They moved through the day smoothly, though at times one of them tended to wander off on their own, so I had to look for that person two or three times. That guest also seemed to greatly enjoy shopping and eating on the go, purchasing food and souvenirs at many of the stops. As the full cherry blossom season had arrived, every spot was extremely crowded, and even at the herb garden there was a long line for buying tickets. The guests appeared very satisfied with the panoramic views of the Kobe cityscape from the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge and the Nunobiki Herb Garden. At the Kikumasamune Sake Brewery, a few cherry trees had begun to bloom, which also delighted them greatly. Today's driver provided very courteous service and driving, making the day pleasant, and also spoke English.

    Dear my guests,

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Jul 25, 2026
    Hdixjdixj
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  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 09:00 Meet @ Hotel Otemachi
    • 2. 09:40 @ Meiji Shrine
    • 3. 11:25 @ Sensoji Temple
    • 4. 12:00 @ Sumida Park
    • 5. 13:10 Disband @ Otemachi Station ticket gate

    When Visiting Tokyo for the First Time, What Can You See in a Private Day Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Meiji Shrine, and Cherry Blossoms The guests were visiting Japan for the first time, having come after a stay in Asia. They had arrived the previous evening, planned to sightsee in Tokyo today and tomorrow, and intended to head to Osaka tomorrow afternoon. Since they were interested in the culture and customs of the countries they visit, I guided them with that interest in mind. We had exchanged messages several times beforehand, but their preferred destinations were not decided until the last minute, so after meeting at the hotel, we discussed and finalized the itinerary. As they planned to visit the Imperial Palace tomorrow, they said they wanted to go to Senso-ji Temple today, and asked for other recommendations, so I proposed Meiji Shrine, which finalized our plan. Today was unfortunately rainy and cold, but as the climate resembled that of where they live, they did not seem to mind. We visited the destinations roughly as planned, and since we had a little time to spare, in response to their wish to see cherry blossoms, I guided them to Sumida Park, which is very close to Asakusa, despite the rain. The blossoms were only about thirty percent open, but they seemed to enjoy it. I saw them to the ticket gate at Otemachi Station, the nearest station to their hotel, explained the route from the gate to the hotel, and we parted ways at the station at 13:10. They became interested in the difference between Shinto (Meiji Shrine) and Buddhism (Senso-ji Temple), and seemed satisfied with my explanation. At the Nakamise shopping street in Asakusa, they purchased folding fans as souvenirs, and gave the impression of being very pleased.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainOtemachi (Tokyo)~Meiji-jingumae209JPY
    Section 2TrainMeiji-jingumae~Asakusa252JPY
    Section 3TrainAsakusa~Otemachi (Tokyo)178JPY
    Total639JPY

    I love traveling and know how travelers feel. I would like to welcome you to Japan and help you discover good things of Japan, including its history, traditions, culture, and food. Please let me know if there are any places you would like to visit or experiences you would like to have. Having lived in the U.S., Germany, and the U.K. myself, I believe I can explain the differences between Japan and the West. I would like to help make your stay in Japan an impressive and memorable one.
    I am in my late 50s and have traveled extensively in Japan and abroad. I would like to support your travel by making the most of these experiences.

    Jul 25, 2026
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  • Fukuoka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Fukuoka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:30  Meet up @Hotel Fukuoka
    • 11:15 Sasaguri Town・Nanzoin Temple
    • 13:00ー13:45 Lunch @Hakata Station Inaba Udon
    • 15:00 Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, Kyushu National Museum (building viewing only)
    • 16:45 Disband @Hakata Station

    Title: What Can You See on a First-Time Private Day Tour of Fukuoka? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America who came to Japan for the first time to coincide with a business trip. The booking was made less than a week before the tour date, and I received a phone call on the morning of the previous day to hear their requests, after which I recommended several places that afternoon. Since this was their first time in Japan and their first stop was Fukuoka, we visited two of Fukuoka's must-see spots, Nanzoin Temple and Dazaifu, which made for a somewhat demanding schedule. We had originally planned to take a direct bus from Hakata Station to Dazaifu, but there were so many tourists that we would have had to wait for two buses, so we quickly switched to the train and transferred to a bus to head to Dazaifu. As a result, we lost a little time. It was cherry blossom season and also spring vacation, so it was quite crowded with tourists, and I felt I should have planned to take the train from the start. The guests were cheerful and bright, taking interest in many things and energetically enjoying their trip. This time there was no opportunity to explain transit IC cards, but the guests took the initiative to purchase them themselves. As they would be heading to Kyoto and Tokyo after Fukuoka, I felt that a transit IC card is an essential item.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHakata~Kido Nanzoin-mae380JPY
    Section 2TrainKido Nanzoin-mae~Hakata380JPY
    Section 3BusHakata Station-mae B~Yakuin Station-mae150JPY
    Section 4TrainYakuin~Dazaifu370JPY
    Section 5TrainDazaifu~Yakuin370JPY
    Section 6BusYakuin Station-mae~Hakata Station Nishi-Nippon City Bank-mae F150JPY
    Total1,800JPY

    My name is Chizuko Kitajima.
    I have worked as an international exchange coordinator for sister schools for more than 20 years and have handled more than 10 sister school partnerships. I guided young students when they came to Japan.
    I was born in Fukuoka and have lived here almost all my life. I am very happy to be able to introduce my hometown to our international guests.
    I will do my best to make your trip different from other cities and offer you new experiences and pleasant surprises.
    Please let me know where you want to go and what your interests are. I would be delighted to help you make the most of your trip and help you create wonderful memories.
    I look forward to seeing you soon.

    Apr 6, 2026
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