Category: Uncategorized

  • Kyoto: Arashiyama & Kiyomizu-dera Temple

    Kyoto: Arashiyama & Kiyomizu-dera Temple

    Kyoto Instagram Spots Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    July, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:00 Hotel Meet
    • 08:30 Arashiyama
    • 　　 Bamboo Grove Path
    • 　　 Okochi Sanso Villa
    • Tenryu-ji Temple
    • 10:20 Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple
    • 11:40 Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 13:10 Yasaka Pagoda
    • 13:50 Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • 14:20 End

    What's a Private Taxi Tour of Kyoto Like in Summer? A Licensed Guide's Report Today I guided the guests, who came from a hot region in North America. Considering the severe heat, with a forecast high of nearly 40°C, I suggested a sightseeing plan using a taxi to reduce the physical strain, and this allowed us to visit many spots efficiently, which the guests were very satisfied with. In the latter half, some fatigue from the heat was noticeable, so we cancelled the originally planned visit to the Gion Festival and, at the guests' request, changed the itinerary to Kiyomizu-dera Temple. I also provided useful information for their sightseeing this evening and the following day.

    Click here for more details: Kyoto Instagram Spots Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by YUKI

    Hello, I’m Yuki.
    With a decade of experience as a Tokyo Metropolitan Government volunteer guide, I embody the spirit of omotenashi, Japanese hospitality. I’ve introduced Tokyo from the observatory at the height of 202 meters and guided visitors to popular spots in the city. I have also lived in several foreign countries for studying, working, and staying as an expatriate. Additionally, I guide both individuals and large groups of around forty people, primarily in the Kyoto and Tokyo areas.
    I enjoy watching movies and visiting temples and shrines, both in Japan and abroad. Eager to share Japan’s seasonal beauty and culture, I invite you to join me in exploring the excitement of Japan and creating a memorable tour together.

    Request Booking

    Sep 20, 2026
    7
    713sharonh
    Worth every penny. Great guide.
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Superb experience. Our…

    Sep 17, 2026
    lauriceprudente
    Tokyo city tour with driver
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    We had a wonderful experience…

    Sep 11, 2026
    alicefV1886CG
    A day with Yuki
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Yuki was brilliant! We agreed…

    Sep 7, 2026
    Venture659059
    Shinjuku tour guide
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Yuki was a great guide. She…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Nijo Castle & Kinkaku-ji

    Kyoto in One Day: Nijo Castle & Kinkaku-ji

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    July, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 12:30 Hotel Meet
    • 12:30-13:10 Transfer (Keihan Railway; Gion-Shijo → Keihan Sanjo, Subway; Sanjo Keihan → Nijojo-mae)
    • 13:10-14:40 Nijo Castle visit
    • 14:40-15:20 Transfer (City Bus; Nijojo-mae → Kinkakuji-michi)
    • 15:30-16:10 Lunch (Ramen・Togenkyo)
    • 16:10-17:10 Kinkaku-ji visit
    • 17:10-18:00 Transfer (City Bus; Kinkakuji-michi → Keihan Shijo-mae)
    • 18:00-18:10 Transfer (On foot; Keihan Shijo-mae → Hotel)
    • 18:10 Tour ends in front of the hotel. Said goodbye to the guests

    Title: What Is a Private Kyoto Tour Like on an Extremely Hot Day? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Europe, and it was their first time in Japan. I took them to Nijo Castle and Kinkaku-ji (the Golden Pavilion). The tour started at 12:30 on an extremely hot day with temperatures reaching 40°C. I had been concerned about guiding in such heat, and during our visit to Nijo Castle and the Ninomaru Palace, one of the guests appeared to be struggling, partly due to lack of sleep. For this reason, some of the guests rested for a while at a rest area. I took the others to see the Ninomaru Garden. Unfortunately, the bus to Kinkaku-ji was very crowded, which made the journey somewhat difficult for some of the guests. Since none of the guests had eaten lunch, after arriving at Kinkaku-ji they had ramen. After lunch, the guest who had been feeling unwell recovered, and they were able to visit Kinkaku-ji without any problems. Originally, after visiting Kinkaku-ji, I had planned to take them to Ryoan-ji and Yasaka Shrine as well, but with the frequent rest breaks and the unplanned lunch time, we were unable to visit Ryoan-ji and Yasaka Shrine.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainGion-Shijo～Sanjo (Kyoto Prefecture)180JPY
    Section 2TrainSanjo (Kyoto Prefecture)～Nijojo-mae220JPY
    Section 3BusNijojo-mae～Kinkakuji-michi／Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 4BusKinkakuji-michi／Kyoto City Bus～Gion-Shijo230JPY
    Total860JPY

    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.…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: TAKESHITA STREET & AKIHABARA

    Tokyo in Half a Day: TAKESHITA STREET & AKIHABARA

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    July, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 12:45 Meet at the lobby in Hotel Tokyo
    • 13:30 1 TAKESHITA STREET
    • 14:45 2 SHIBUYA
    • 16:00 3 AKIHABARA
    • 17:30　See off at the lobby in Hotel Tokyo

    What's a Private Tour on the Final Day of a Japan Trip Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. After also enjoying shore excursion tours during a cruise (visiting places such as Osaka, Kyoto, Kochi, Hiroshima, and Nagasaki), they booked this tour for the final day of their sightseeing in Japan. Since they were returning home the next day, I did my best to make it a wonderful final day. Throughout both the tour itself and our communication beforehand, the guests were very polite and considerate in how they interacted with me, and I felt they had a great deal of personal warmth. I heard that some of the guests may have the opportunity to visit Japan, so I truly hope they will enjoy a [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) tour as well.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayNishi-Shinjuku～Meiji-jingumae180JPY
    Section 2SubwayMeiji-jingumae～Shibuya180JPY
    Section 3SubwayShibuya～Akihabara260JPY
    Section 4SubwayAkihabara～Nishi-Shinjuku380JPY
    Total1,000JPY

    Tour Report by Masa

    Welcome to Japan. I hope you are going to enjoy your stay.

    Who am I?
    I am a Licensed Guide Interpreter at an age of 61.
    I got an early retirement from 36 yrs of the employment in a Japanese financial sector.
    I hope I can attend to you with the Japanese politeness, hospitality and smile.

    What can I be expected?
    I would like to introduce the photogenic sites, the indigenous experiences
    and good Japanese local food around Tokyo, Hakone/Mt Fuji.
    I might be able to show you the features of shrine and temple with a religious manner if you’d like.
    As a matter of fact, I don’t have a specific religion to believe, though.
    I love Japan and that’s why I started a new career as a guide.

    What do I love?
    Most of all, my family. I have a wife 56 yrs old, a son 28 yrs old and a daughter 25 yrs old.
    I like eating raw fish and sushi, buckwheat noodles and curry rice.

    How do I spend my spare time?
    I run for 5 km in the morning listening to my favorite music.
    I might have a chance to go to a studio program in the fitness club nearby once a week.

    I look forward to meeting you soon.
    Thank you.

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    Sep 21, 2026
    judygU2038FZ
    A wonderful time in Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had such a…

    Jul 21, 2026
    Sandra_U
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Great Individualized Tour!
    Our tour guide, Masa, was wonderful. The tour…

    Apr 3, 2026
    Celal_S
    Viator review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a great tour even…
    We had a great tour even…

    Mar 30, 2026
    Johanna H
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Early Morning Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    6 hour Guided Tour of Tokyo
    We booked the 6…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Kyobashi Station & Hatchobori Station

    Tokyo in One Day: Kyobashi Station & Hatchobori Station

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    July, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00 Meeting place: Courtyard by Marriott Tokyo Station
    • 11:10 Depart Kyobashi Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Omotesando Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • 11:40 Arrive Meiji-jingumae Station
    • Harajuku Meiji Shrine
    • Takeshita Street
    • 12:30 Depart Meiji-jingumae Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • Omotesando Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 12:40 Arrive Shibuya Station
    • Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • Hachiko Statue
    • Lunch: Shibuya Mark City
    • 13:30 Depart Shibuya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 14:15 Arrive Asakusa Station
    • Asakusa Sensoji Temple
    • Asakusa Shrine
    • Nakamise Shopping Street
    • 15:00 Depart Asakusa Station
    • (Tobu Skytree Line)
    • 15:10 Arrive Tokyo Skytree Station
    • Tokyo Skytree Tokyo Skytree
    • 16:15 Depart Tokyo Skytree Station
    • (Tobu Skytree Line)
    • Asakusa Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Ueno Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • 17:00 Arrive Hatchobori Station
    • 17:00 Disband: Hatchobori Station, Keiyo Line Platform

    What Is a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Meiji Shrine, Harajuku, Shibuya, Asakusa, and Skytree The guests were a group visiting Japan from North America. This was their first visit to Japan. They had arrived at Narita Airport three days earlier and were staying in Japan for eight days. The main purpose of this visit was supported by a support organization, to fulfill the wish of one of the guests to come to Japan and meet character goods. Their accommodation was in Maihama, and they came to the meeting point by taxi today. I had initially assumed they were staying at the meeting point, but when I checked at the hotel reception, I was told their names were not on the guest list. After contacting them via a messaging app and by phone, we were finally able to meet at the entrance on the first floor of the hotel. Over the previous two days, they had visited several character goods stores in Tokyo. Tomorrow they plan a day trip to Mount Fuji and Hakone, after which they will enjoy the theme parks before returning home. It was a tour under cloudy but hot and humid weather. Following their wishes, we moved to Harajuku. First, we visited Meiji Shrine. I explained about Shinto, about torii gates, about Emperor Meiji, why sake barrels are displayed there, and why wine barrels are also displayed. There were questions such as "What kind of religion is Shinto?", "How is Buddhism different from Shinto?", and "Why did Shinto arise in Japan?" We took a short break at the café terrace at Meiji Shrine. After that, we took a leisurely stroll along Takeshita Street. We then moved to Shibuya. From in front of the Keio Line platform, we looked out over the Scramble Crossing, and then actually crossed it. We also took photos in front of the Hachiko statue. At the guests' request, we went for lunch. Since they wished to have Western food rather than Japanese food, we went to a Western restaurant inside Mark City. We then moved to Asakusa. Starting from in front of Kaminarimon Gate, I explained about "Senso-ji and the history from Edo to Tokyo," "what the five-story pagoda is for," "what Buddhism is," and "the difference between Buddhism and Shinto." We took commemorative photos at Kaminarimon and various other spots, and strolled leisurely through the crowded Nakamise shopping street. There were questions such as "What are the main religions in Japan?", "How many Buddhists are there in Japan?", and "Besides Buddhism, what other religions do people believe in?" Everyone drew omikuji fortunes, and some of the guests drew the "great blessing" and were delighted. From here, we moved to Tokyo Skytree. I waited at the fifth-floor exit. The comment was, "We couldn't see Mount Fuji, but it was wonderful to see the full view of Tokyo. We could really understand how vast and expansive the city is." There were comments and questions such as "The city is clean and there is no litter on the ground," "There are no trash cans on the streets. Why is that?", "The trains and subways are well maintained, and the air conditioning works well," and "There is no one speaking loudly." I saw them off at the Keiyo Line platform at Hatchobori Station, where the tour concluded.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyobashi (Tokyo)～Meiji-jingumae210JPY
    Section 2TrainMeiji-jingumae～Shibuya180JPY
    Section 3TrainShibuya～Asakusa260JPY
    Section 4TrainAsakusa～Tokyo Skytree160JPY
    Section 5TrainTokyo Skytree～Asakusa160JPY
    Section 6TrainAsakusa～Hatchobori (Tokyo)210JPY
    Total1,180JPY

    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…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Bamboo Path & Arashiyama

    Kyoto in One Day: Bamboo Path & Arashiyama

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    July, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Hotel Kyoto
    • 10:50 Bamboo Path by taxi
    • 11:00Tenryuji (500+300) by walking
    • 11:40 Lunch（Ozuru）
    • 13:00 Sagano Romantic Train at Saga Sta.
    • Train Sta. →　Bording area
    • 14:00 Hozugawa River Boat Tour
    • 16:00 Arashiyama
    • 17:00 Hotel Kyoto

    What Is a Private Kyoto Tour with the Sagano Romantic Train and Hozugawa River Boat Ride Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Europe. From the beginning I had been communicating with a travel agency, and they said they were also well acquainted with [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/). Transportation costs and admission fees were handled with the guide paying in advance and being reimbursed. As it was a very hot day, I asked the guests to make sure to drink plenty of water. The main part of the itinerary was the Sagano Romantic Train (Torokko) and the Hozugawa River boat ride. The travel agency also arranged the guide's ticket, so everything went smoothly. The day before, the guests had visited Kiyomizu-dera Temple and Gion, and the next day they planned to go to Osaka, then on to Nara from Osaka. After Kyoto they were also planning to visit Hiroshima, and their itinerary had been arranged in detail. The lotus flowers at Ogura Pond were in full bloom, and the guests were delighted.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1JGA Pre-Approved FeeGood Nature Hotel～Sagano Bamboo Grove5,400JPY
    Section 2JGA Pre-Approved FeeArashiyama～Good Nature Hotel5,000JPY
    Section 3OtherTorokko Kameoka～Hozugawa River Boat Tour Boarding Area／Keihan Kyoto Kotsu2,000JPY
    Total12,400JPY

    Tour Report by Kazz

    I’m Ryoichi Kazuma and my nickname is “Kazz”. I live in Kyotanabe city next to Kyoto city. I want guests to enjoy Kyoto by seeing and experiencing not only from outside but also from inside. I offer various information from daily matters to traditional cultures. Most destinations in Kyoto are located on the eastern side or the western side. As I want to guide guests to as many destinations as possible, I make an efficient itinerary and recommend a taxi use to save time. Additionally, I take pictures at various spots and finally share the link to my storage. By doing so, guests can download their favorite pictures from my storage. Please enjoy Kyoto night and day!

    Request Booking

    Sep 25, 2026
    Marvin_F
    Kazz is an outstanding…
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Kazz is an outstanding experiencedand friendly…

    Sep 21, 2026
    Laura_K
    Day in Kyoto with Kazz
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Kazz was an amazing…

    Aug 27, 2026
    M6034YWthomasm
    Worth it
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    The day went by so quickly, a…

    Aug 10, 2026
    Sez042
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Awesome experience
    Tour guide Kazz was great. Very informative and showed…

  • Kanagawa in One Day: Hakone-Yumoto Station & Moto-Hakone Port Bus

    Kanagawa in One Day: Hakone-Yumoto Station & Moto-Hakone Port Bus

    Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    July, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meeting place: Hotel
    • 9:35 Depart Hakone-Yumoto Station
    • (Hakone Tozan Railway)
    • 10:10 Arrive Gora Station
    • (Hakone Tozan Cable Car)
    • Sounzan Station
    • (Hakone Ropeway)
    • 10:45 Arrive Owakudani Station
    • Owakudani Owakudani Observation Deck
    • Owakudani Kuro-tamago Hall
    • 11:45 Depart Owakudani Station
    • (Hakone Ropeway)
    • 12:15 Arrive Togendai Station
    • 12:40 Depart Togendai Port
    • (Hakone Sightseeing Cruise)
    • 13:05 Arrive Hakone-machi Port
    • Hakone-machi Hakone Checkpoint
    • 13:30 Depart Hakone-machi Port Bus Stop
    • (Hakone Tozan Bus)
    • 13:40 Arrive Moto-Hakone Port Bus Stop
    • Moto-Hakone Lunch: Bakery & Table
    • Hakone Shrine
    • 14:30 Depart Moto-Hakone Port Bus Stop
    • (Hakone Tozan Bus)
    • 15:30 Arrive Hakone-Yumoto Station
    • 15:30 Disband: Hakone-Yumoto Station

    Title: What Is a Private Hakone Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Owakudani, Lake Ashi, and Hakone Shrine The guests were a group visiting Japan from Europe, all traveling to Japan for the first time. This trip was arranged to coincide with an approximately two-week summer break. The guests originally came from Asia and had relocated to Europe 35 years ago. They had arrived at the airport a few days earlier and traveled to Tokyo, where they stayed in the Shinjuku and Shin-Okubo areas. After two nights in Hakone, they planned to travel from Odawara to Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, and Hiroshima the next day, then return to Tokyo before flying home. They had already visited Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and Hiroshima after arriving at the airport, and had come to Hakone the previous day. They said, "We really wanted to see Mount Fuji from Hakone," and "We wanted to go somewhere a little quieter and enjoy the hot springs." Although it did not rain, the clouds were thick, so we were unable to see Mount Fuji. From Hakone-Yumoto Station, we transferred between the Hakone Tozan Railway, the cable car, and the ropeway to reach Owakudani. I explained "the formation of Hakone," "its history as a hot spring and summer retreat," and "an overview and history of Owakudani." There were questions such as "Is Owakudani an active volcano? Has it ever erupted?" and "Is Mount Fuji also an active volcano? When did it erupt?" We bought "black eggs" and everyone tried them together. They commented, "The smell of sulfur is incredible." Next, we took the ropeway to Togendai Port and boarded the Hakone pirate ship. I explained "the history and current state of Lake Ashi." It was a little chilly, but we went up to the top observation deck. They said, "It's a beautiful lake and feels wonderful." There were also questions such as "Can you swim here?" "What kinds of fish are there?" and "Does it freeze in winter?" We arrived at Hakonemachi Port and walked around the Hakone Checkpoint ruins. I explained "the history from the Edo period to the Meiji Restoration," "the Tokaido and the other five highways," and "the national isolation policy during the Edo period." We took a bus to Moto-Hakone Port. Since some of the guests were vegetarian, we had lunch at "Bakery & Table." After that, we walked to Hakone Shrine. I explained "the history of Hakone Shrine." We visited the main hall, and I explained how to worship. The torii gate on the lake had a long line of people waiting to take photos, so we took our pictures from the side. There were many questions about "the difference between Buddhism and Shinto" and "what Shinto is." There was also a question: "Why do so many people line up just to take a photo?" They commented, "Everywhere in Japan the towns are so clean. There is no litter on the ground," and "Everyone is so polite." They also asked many questions such as "What is the average annual income in Japan?" "What are the population trends?" and "How do taxes and social insurance premiums work?" I saw them off at Hakone-Yumoto Station, where we parted ways.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassHakone Free Pass～Hakone Free Pass6,000JPY
    Total6,000JPY

    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: Meiji Shrine & Akihabara

    Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Akihabara

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    July, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00　Meet up @ Hotel
    • 10:50　Meiji Shrine
    • 12:15　Imperial Palace
    • 13:00　Lunch @ Don Satsuma (Marunouchi Building)
    • 14:15　Sensoji Temple
    • 15:10　Akihabara
    • 16:15　Disband @ Hotel

    What's a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Meiji Shrine, the Imperial Palace, Senso-ji, and Akihabara The guests were a group visiting from North America, and it was their first time in Japan. After sightseeing in Tokyo, they planned to travel to Kyoto and Osaka. At Meiji Shrine, the guests listened with great interest to explanations about the differences between shrines and temples, and seemed impressed by the quiet and solemn atmosphere. At the Imperial Palace, they listened attentively to historical explanations about the role of the Emperor, the Meiji Restoration, and the Edo Shogunate. At Senso-ji Temple, they were very interested in explanations about the Kaminarimon Gate and the Kannon deity. In Akihabara, some of the guests showed great interest in shops selling character trading cards. Since I responded in accordance with the guests' wishes, I believe they were satisfied.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayToranomon Hills～Ebisu180JPY
    Section 2TrainEbisu～Harajuku160JPY
    Section 3SubwayMeiji-jingumae～Nijubashimae210JPY
    Section 4TrainTokyo～Ueno200JPY
    Section 5SubwayUeno～Asakusa180JPY
    Section 6SubwayAsakusa～Suehirocho (Tokyo)180JPY
    Section 7SubwayAkihabara～Toranomon Hills180JPY
    Total1,290JPY

    Tour Report by Seizo

    I am Seizo Kamiuto, National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter (English). I was born in Kagoshima City in Kyushu (Southern part of Japan) and grew up there until the graduation from a high school. I came to Tokyo to enter a University in Tokyo and since then, I have lived in Tokyo for more than 40 years and therefore I know Tokyo and its suburbs and Kagoshima City very well. After retiring from an IT company, I have been working as a Guide Interpreter of English since March 2018. I have guided many overseas guests to the popular sightseeing spots in Tokyo, Kamakura, Mt. Fuji area (Kawaguchiko Lake etc.), Hakone, Nikko, Yokohama, Kawagoe and Kagoshima and so on. I have received good reviews from many guests. I can explain the history and the culture of Japan in detail. I look forward to an opportunity to guide you in Japan. Thank you. Seizo Kamiuto

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    Sep 27, 2026
    jonaJ5014ZK
    Walking tour of Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Seizo was a tremendously fabulous…

    Sep 11, 2026
    M7402TTsharonp
    Higly recommend
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Had an amazing tour with Seizi Kaminto.…

    Sep 8, 2026
    OnAir57127583503
    Amazing Experience with Kamakura Day Tour
    Tripadvisor review: Japan Guide Agency
    We had an excellent time with Seizo Kamiuto as our…

    Sep 4, 2026
    B2319ZKjoseo
    Pleasant stroll through HISTORY
    Tripadvisor review: Kawagoe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We had a great time learning about…

  • Hiroshima in Half a Day: Hondori Shopping Street & Mukaishima

    Hiroshima in Half a Day: Hondori Shopping Street & Mukaishima

    Onomichi Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    July, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 12:50 　Meet in front of Hostel Yutori lobby
    • 13:10　 Jikoji Temple ~ Komyoji Temple
    • 13:30　Hondori Shopping Street
    • 14:20　Ropeway
    • 14:40　Senkoji Park Observation Deck
    • 15:15　Senkoji Temple ~ Kaiun Tower
    • 15:00　Cat Alley
    • 16:30　Onomichi Ferry Port
    • 16:40　Mukaishima
    • 17:15　Disband in front of the ramen shop on Kaigandori

    What's a Private Temple and Mountain Walking Tour in Japan Like on a Hot Summer Day? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe. Because it was an extremely hot day with temperatures exceeding body temperature and the tour involved walking on mountain slopes, I was very concerned about their well-being and prepared everything I could think of, including ice, a parasol, a fan, and cooling packs. The guests were energetic throughout and walked for four hours without a break. The more I talked about Buddhism, Buddhist statues, and the syncretism of Shinto and Buddhism, the more interested they became and the more questions they asked, which made it an enjoyable temple tour for me as a guide as well. Even though it was a national holiday, because of the intense heat there was not much of a line for the ropeway. At the end, since they wanted ramen for dinner, I guided them to a recommended restaurant, and we parted ways there.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherTsuchido Pier～Kaneyoshi Pier200JPY
    Total200JPY

    Tour Report by Miyoko

    Hello! My name is Miyoko Akashi, and I’d be delighted to be your guide.　I’ve been working as a tour guide for eight years.

    I was born in Nagoya and have lived in Hiroshima for about 40 years, so I know the Seto Inland Sea region very well.
    Before becoming a guide, I taught English, mainly to high school students, for many years and was actively involved in international exchange programs.

    In my free time, I enjoy photography and running.　 I’ve traveled all over Japan to take photographs and participate in marathon races, and I always enjoy discovering new places and meeting new people.

    I look forward to sharing the beauty, history, and culture of this wonderful region with you.

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  • Tokyo in One Day: Zojoji Temple & Skytree

    Tokyo in One Day: Zojoji Temple & Skytree

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    July, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:30 Hotel MyStays Premier Hamamatsucho
    • 10:45 Zojoji Temple
    • 11:30 teamLab Borderless
    • 13:20 Lunch @ Sushi Ei
    • 14:10 Sensoji Temple
    • 15:00 Skytree
    • 16:30 Disperse @ Daimon Station

    What Is a Private First-Day Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tokyo Skytree and a Sushi Lunch This was a private tour on the group's first day in Japan, with guests visiting from North America. Since one of the guests needed to avoid heat and strong sunlight, and it was extremely hot from the morning, we watched the situation and, after discussing options, decided to move by taxi instead of walking one section, and changed the itinerary from the Imperial Palace to Tokyo Skytree, which allowed us to finish safely. Although it was not mentioned at the time of booking, the tour was supported through an assistance organization, and the guests were staying in Tokyo only for seven days. For lunch they wished to have sushi, so I took them to a sushi restaurant, where they enjoyed a fairly large amount at the counter. At Tokyo Skytree, one of the guests preferred not to go up because of a dislike of heights, so we waited together and had tea. One of the guests lost a credit card that had been kept in a pocket, and for a moment it seemed like a serious problem, but a kind person had turned it in, and it was safely returned, which was a great relief. Once it was found, one of the guests really wanted a Coke Zero, which is not often available in restaurants, so we found a canned one at a convenience store. The guests said they would visit Disneyland and DisneySea the next day. At Daimon Station, I explained how to get back to the hotel, and 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 1SubwayKamiyacho～Asakusa210JPY
    Section 2TrainAsakusa～Tokyo Skytree160JPY
    Section 3SubwayOshiage～Daimon (Tokyo)220JPY
    Total590JPY

    Tour Report by Takako

    Hello!! I’m Takako. Thank you for seeing my page. I’ve been showing guests around Tokyo, Yokohama and Kamakura for over six years. There are various things from historic sites, shrines and temples to cultural spots, good restaurants and anime shops in Japan.
    I love watching sumo wrestling, Japanese traditional sport.
    My favorite place is Tsukiji food market. It’s really exciting and you can enjoy a variety of delicious foods.
    I also like visiting Japanese gardens such as Hama-rikyu Gardens and Rikugien Gardens.
    Please let me know what interests you.
    I would be happy to make a suitable tour for you and help you stay in Japan comfortably.
    Looking forward to meeting you!!

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    Sep 30, 2026
    16shelleyb
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo in 1 Day from Yokohama: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Great day in Toyko
    Four of us spent an…

    Sep 29, 2026
    982marvf
    Yokohama Experience
    Tripadvisor review: Yokohama Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Takako is an outstanding tour guide who knows Yokohama…

    Sep 24, 2026
    marshad422
    A great day of seeing so much and gaining knowledge of the historical and spiritual meaning to the places visited.
    Tripadvisor…

    Sep 18, 2026
    7
    770stefanieg
    Wonderful, personalized tour of Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Takako, our guide…

  • Hyogo in One Day: Egret Himeji Rooftop & Nadagiku Sake Brewery

    Hyogo in One Day: Egret Himeji Rooftop & Nadagiku Sake Brewery

    Himeji Castle & Koko-en in 1 Day Tour with Licensed Guide

    July, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Meet @ JR Himeji Station
    • 09:15 @ Egret Himeji Rooftop
    • 09:30 @ Himeji Castle
    • 11:45 @ Koko-en Garden
    • 12:30 @ Nadagiku Sake Brewery
    • 13:30 Disband @ Miyuki-dori Shopping Street

    What Is a Private Himeji Castle and Sake Brewery Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America, and one of them had visited Japan once before; both showed great interest in Japan and seemed to be genuine admirers of the country. Today involved moving around in very high temperatures, but everything went smoothly. (On the contrary, the guests kindly asked me, "Are you sure you don't need to take a break?") At every spot, the guests listened very attentively to my explanations. Regarding Himeji Castle, they commented, "This is truly a wonderful spot, we were very satisfied." The guests also seemed to be fond of Japanese sake, and appeared to be looking forward to visiting the final spot, "Nadagiku Sake Brewery." Today a fairly senior person at the brewery attended to them, and the usually paid tasting was offered for free, along with many varieties to sample. The guests purchased a great deal of sake as souvenirs. I presented them with a handmade drawstring pouch, which they were very pleased to receive. We were able to complete the visits to each spot very smoothly (I had predicted that Himeji Castle would likely be crowded with many visitors due to the holiday period, but this turned out not to be the case at all, and we moved around even more smoothly than usual). This left us with a great deal of extra time, but the guests said they would have lunch on their own by strolling around before returning to Osaka, so we parted with about an hour and a half to spare. (I had guided them to a restaurant they wished to visit, which was supposed to be open until 14:00, but for some reason it was closed and could not be used.)

    Click here for more details: Himeji Castle & Koko-en in 1 Day Tour with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Yama

    Dear my guests,

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

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

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

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

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

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

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    Sep 27, 2026
    Ross_W
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    Viator review: Osaka Hidden Gems Off the Beaten Path Tour, Licensed Guide
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    Aug 10, 2026
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    Great experience
    Yama was great, he showed us around and explained…

    Jul 25, 2026
    Hdixjdixj
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Local Food & Culture Tour in 1 Day, Licensed Guide
    Amazing Food Tour through Osaka
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    Jul 20, 2026
    Eric_W
    Viator review: Himeji Castle & Koko-en in 1 Day Tour with Licensed Guide
    Castle journey worth your time!
    Our tour with…