Category: Uncategorized

  • Kyoto in 1 Day from Kobe: Private Car Tour

    Kyoto in 1 Day from Kobe: Private Car Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • AM 11:00 Start from Kobe Naka Pier Cruise Terminal
    •      1 hour delay due to accident congestion on the Hanshin Expressway
    • On the way, moved from Hankyu Kammaki Station to Arashiyama (Guest approved)
    • PM 13:30-14:40 Tour of Tenryu-ji Garden and Bamboo Grove
    • Move to Kinkaku-ji
    • PM 15:10-16:00 Tour of Kinkaku-ji
    • Move to Fushimi Inari
    • PM 16:30-17:10
    • Move to Gion
    • PM 17:30-18:30 Stroll from Gion to Kencho-ji and Miyagawa
    • Move to Kobe Naka Pier Cruise Terminal, arriving PM 20:00, tour dismissal

    Title: Can You Do a Private Kyoto and Kobe Day Tour Despite Highway Traffic? A Licensed Guide's Report On the day of the tour, the Hanshin Expressway toward Kyoto was closed due to an accident-related traffic jam. We detoured onto the national road but ended up running one hour behind schedule. The expressway toward Kyoto was also congested, so with the guests' consent, we switched to the railway from Hankyu Kanmaki Station and headed to Arashiyama partway through the route. Kiyomizu-dera Temple had also been included in the plan, but with the guests' consent, we decided to remove it from the itinerary. Everything else was carried out as planned. Along the way, we stopped at a coffee shop where the guests purchased a cup featuring the name "JAPAN" as they had wished. After strolling through Gion and Miyagawa, we headed to Kobe. There was another accident-related traffic jam on the way, but we somehow managed to arrive at roughly the planned time. Since it is impossible to build a schedule that anticipates accident-related traffic jams, I think it would be necessary to consider how to handle extension fees that arise from such unavoidable circumstances.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKammaki~Arashiyama280JPY
    Total280JPY

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1.1200Hotel
    • 2.1200-1245Asakusa,Senso-ji,Kappabashi
    • 3.1345-1400Yanaka Bochi
    • 4.1430-1515 Tea ceremony experience
    • 5.1515-1540 Move to Koishikawa Korakuen
    • 6.1540-1620 Koishikawa kourakuen
    • 7.1620-1650 Move to Imperial Place (indicating Inuimon toorimuke for tomorrow)
    • 8.1650-1740 Move to Tsukiji and see some restaurant
    • 9.1720-1800 Back to Akasaka mitsuke and finish

    Title: What's a Full-Day Private Cherry Blossom Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Body: [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) led a full-day private cherry blossom tour of Tokyo for the guests. We started from the Hotel and walked along the embankment toward Yotsuya while enjoying the cherry blossoms. We then went to Asakusa, exploring Nakamise Street and the main hall, and continued to Kappabashi, where the guests looked at a variety of knives and tableware. We moved by taxi to Yanaka Cemetery, where the cherry blossoms were nearly in full bloom, and I explained several of the gravestones. From 14:30, we enjoyed a tea ceremony experience at a well-known gallery in Okubo run by an acquaintance of mine. The guests savored matcha served in venerable tea utensils, some 300 and 150 years old. The explanation of the tea room, the wagashi sweets, and even a drawing of the tea utensils that the host painted for them on the spot were all memorable, and the guests were very pleased. After that, we visited Koishikawa Korakuen, where the cherry blossoms were beautiful and the strolling paths modeled after Kyoto gave a sense of history that the guests greatly enjoyed. We then took a taxi and I explained the location of the Inui-mon walkthrough that would open from the 29th, before heading to Tsukiji. I had informed the guests in advance that the shops would not be open, so they simply took in the atmosphere and decided to dine at their Hotel. I saw them off at Akasaka-mitsuke, ending the tour. The guests were deeply moved.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainYotsuya~Kanda167JPY
    Section 2SubwayKanda~Asakusa178JPY
    Section 3TrainNippori~Suidobashi167JPY
    Section 4SubwayTsukiji~Akasaka-mitsuke178JPY
    Total690JPY

    My name is KAZU HAKATA. 73years old (as of end AUG2025). I started as a guide from March 2023. Graduated from KYOTO Univ Intl Economics and MBA from INSEAD in France. (14 years in overseas, LUX, Paris, Hong Kong) . I used to work in Banking, Telecommunication, Air Line, Financial Trading as CFO. I did more than 150 days of Guide since 2023,Tokyo( most of the Guides), Nikko, Hakone, Kamakura, and other area. Born in Hyogo Pref. I lived 26 years in Kansai and know quite well Kyoto, Nara, Osaka ,Kobe, Wakayama ( Koya san + Kumano Kodo).
    I know not only touristic sites, but I can show you hidden charming points of JAPAN. If you can enjoy your tour in JAPAN, it is also my pleasure. I will do as much as I can to assist you to understand Japanese history, culture, nature, and a real life in JAPAN.
    [FRANCAIS]
    J’ai commencee a Guide apres avoir obtenu Diplome de Francaise en fevrier 2023. Jusqu’a maintenant j’ai effectue plus de 150 guides dont 1/4 francais. Principalement a Tokyo , mais de temps en temps aux Nikko, Kamakura, Kawaguchiko, Hakone, Takayama, Shirakawago, Kanazawa, Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, Okayama, Naoshima.
    A Tokyo, les sites frequentes sont Tsukiji, Hama Rikyu, Asakusa, Jardin Imperial, Rikugi-En , Yanaka, Ueno, Ameyoko, Musee Nationale, Akihabara, Jardin de Korakuen , Harajuku, Sanctuaire de Meiji, ruelle de Tekeshita , Aoyama, Shibuya, Temple de Gotokuji, etc.
    Comme je suis ne a Hyogo ( ouest du Japon) et etudie a Kyoto, Je connais bien Kyoto,Nara,Osaka, Mont Koya, Hieizan. En plus j’ai travaille a Osaka 2017-2019.pendant cette periode j’ai souvent visitee des sites touristiques a Kyoto, Nara, Osaka. J’ai fait les randonnes a Kumono Kodo et 33 temples en Kansai.

    Apr 4, 2026
    Rebecca_M
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kazu Rocks!!
    Kazu was a gem! From our booking well in advance…

    Oct 19, 2025
    geoffreysE7617EB
    6-hour Tokyo Tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    My guide, Kazuyasu Hakata, modified some of the tour,…

    Oct 9, 2025
    zglus
    6 Hr walking Tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kazuyas brought us all around Tokyo and was…

    Sep 26, 2025
    JulieD4351
    We saw the fish market, many shrines, the busy walkway, and much more!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 10:30 Hotel Century Southern Tower
    • 2. 11:00 Omoide Yokocho
    • 3. 11:30 Meiji Shrine
    • 4. 12:30 Takeshita Street (entrance only)
    • 5. 12:55 Shibuya Hachiko, Scramble Crossing
    • 6. 13:30 Imperial Palace Otemon Gate〜Tatsumi Yagura area
    • 7. 14:15 Lunch @ Yakiniku TORAJI (Marunouchi Building)
    • 8. 16:30 Disband at Asakusa

    What Are the Highlights of a Private One-Day Tokyo Walking Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe who had arrived the day before. Since they left the day's itinerary up to me, we confirmed the route and set off. As some of the guests walked slowly, I chose routes that were as flat as possible and made use of elevators and escalators wherever available. The guests seemed impressed that, despite Tokyo being a major metropolis, there is greenery everywhere, such as at Meiji Shrine and the Imperial Palace. They also seemed a little overwhelmed by the crowds. I feel I was able to meet their request to see as many highlights as possible within the limited time available.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinjuku~Harajuku150JPY
    Section 2TrainHarajuku~Shibuya150JPY
    Section 3TrainShibuya~Otemachi210JPY
    Section 4TrainOtemachi~Asakusa180JPY
    Total690JPY

    Hello, I’m Miho Ozawa, and I’ve been working as a government licenced guide interpreter for six years in Tokyo. I live in east Tokyo with my family, including my three children, and I love art, gardens, photography and traveling.
    It’s such a pleasure to explore this fascinating city Tokyo with you. There are so many things you can do, although sometimes it’s hard to choose what to do within a limited time. I would really appreciate if you could let me know what you would like to do or where you would like to visit in Tokyo. I would be happy to help you plan to make your trip a memorable one. I’m forward to hearing from you and meeting you soon!

    Apr 18, 2026
    CRM
    Viator review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Day 1 Japan Meiji Shrine, Shibuya
    Miho was an amazing tour guide.…

    Mar 31, 2026
    M
    maaz06
    Private Half Day tour with Government Licenced Guide
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our half day…

    Mar 31, 2026
    Maria_A
    Viator review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Brilliant half Day Private tour customized to see the beautiful Cherry Blossoms…

    Mar 31, 2026
    Rick_G
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Fun day out with Miho
    We had a great time exploring the…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Meiji Shrine & Asakusa and Sensoji Temple

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Meiji Shrine & Asakusa and Sensoji Temple

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00 Meet at the hotel, then guided tour around the Shinjuku Kabukicho area.
    • 11:30 To Meiji Shrine
    • 12:40 Shibuya Crossing
    • 13:30 Guided tour to the Imperial Palace and Nijubashi Bridge
    • 14:10 Visit Asakusa and Sensoji Temple
    • 15:15 Tour ends

    Title: What Can You See on a 4-Hour Private Tokyo Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan from the Middle East. After spending a few days in Tokyo, they planned to head to Kyoto. From the pre-tour discussions, the guests expressed interest in visiting many different places, but since it was a 4-hour course, we narrowed down the destinations for the tour. They had arrived the previous evening and mentioned walking around the Shinjuku and Kabukicho area near their hotel that night. After showing them the Kabukicho area again, we headed to Meiji Shrine. Entering from the north approach of Meiji Shrine, I explained the differences between Shinto and Buddhism, the influence each has had on Japanese culture, and the differences in how to worship. The guests became quite fascinated by Shinto and purchased many amulets. Next, we moved to the Shibuya crossing, where they enjoyed the view of the intersection from a Starbucks, before heading to the Imperial Palace and Nijubashi Bridge. They had hoped to view cherry blossoms, so I considered guiding them to Chidorigafuchi, but since they wanted to follow the original itinerary, we visited Nijubashi Bridge. After taking them to Tokyo Station, we headed to Asakusa and Sensoji Temple. It was very crowded, but the guests seemed to enjoy the unique atmosphere of Asakusa. Since they had a reservation at teamLab afterward, we concluded the tour here.

    Hello and welcome to Tokyo!

    I have been working for business with American companies for many years. I have many experiences guiding customers from around the world in Japan and taking Japanese customers to the USA and Europe.

    I now have a national license as a guiding interpreter, and I want to introduce the unique gigantic city of Tokyo and the traditional Japanese culture, which is not shown in the guidebooks, to people worldwide who are interested in it. In addition, I want to introduce various Japanese foods you can enjoy only in Japan.
    Unique experiences such as the Sumo Training Viewing and Tea Ceremony are optionally available.
    Depending on your preference and itinerary, I can guide you in Tokyo, Kamakura, and Hakone so that you can enjoy your time in Japan.

    Jul 26, 2026
    Kevin_B
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Tokyo Tour
    Highly recommend this tour for first time…

    Jun 22, 2026
    Ashish_L
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Best Tour for a Short Visit
    Atsushi-san was an incredibly well-researched and…

    May 27, 2026
    jackie m
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Walking tour of Tokyo
    Our guide was really interesting and had…

    Apr 9, 2026
    Lindsey_W
    Viator review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our guide, Atsushi, was…
    Our guide, Atsushi, was great! He met…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Pepper Parlor & 2D Café

    Tokyo in One Day: Pepper Parlor & 2D Café

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at Hotel
    • 11:00 Pepper Parlor (Robot Cafe)
    • 12:30 Scramble Crossing
    • 12:40~13:40 Lunch (Yakiniku)
    • 14:10~15:00 2D Café
    • 16:00 End at Etchujima Pier
    • Guests board the dinner cruise at 16:30

    Title: What's a Private Family-Friendly Tour of Tokyo's Robot Cafe and Manga Cafe Like? A Licensed Guide's Report At the request of the guests, I took the group to a robot cafe and a manga cafe. The group quickly warmed up to the Pepper robot and had a wonderful time. At an Instagram-worthy cafe in Shin-Okubo called 2D Cafe, where you feel completely immersed in the world of manga, the guests took many photos. Since the guests had booked a dinner cruise, I paid extra attention to time management throughout the tour. This was my first visit to both cafes, so it was a valuable experience for my future work. I am grateful to the guests.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHamamatsucho~Shibuya208JPY
    Section 2TrainShibuya~Shin-Okubo167JPY
    Section 3TrainShin-Okubo~Takadanobaba146JPY
    Section 4SubwayTakadanobaba~Monzen-Nakacho209JPY
    Total730JPY

    Hi, my name is Ken. I am a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter in Japan.
    I’ve been living in Yokohama, west of Tokyo, for more than 20 years.
    Since 2018 I have been enjoying guiding guests from all over the globe to various attractive places in Tokyo, Yokohama, Kamakura, Mt. Fuji, and so on.
    I can also bring you unique experiences such as sake tasting, car factory, beer brewery, fish markets as well as rural town in Miyagi pref., where I was born, by riding on the Shinkansen bullet train.
    Please think I’m your friend in Japan. Tell me where you want to go, see, or experience. I can customize the tour for you.
    My hobby is walking and jogging. I made 42K runs 9 times so far but I take it easy now.
    Having worked globally in the food industry for 35 years, I love local foods of Japan and other countries.
    I’ll try my best to make your visit a memorable one.
    I’m looking forward to meeting you soon!

    Oct 4, 2025
    Ivette_S
    Tour in Tokyo
    Viator review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide from Yokohama
    Our guide, Ken, kept in touch with…

    Jun 25, 2025
    DTLALynn
    The best tour & guide we had!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo was our last stop…

    Jun 8, 2025
    christophern458
    Amazing time in Hakone
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone Full-Day Private Tour(Tokyo DEP.) with Government-Licensed Guide
    My family and I can not speak…

    Apr 5, 2025
    lisajayneherewini
    Happy happy happy
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Instagram Highlights Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    We had a lovely half day with…

  • Nara in One Day: Kofukuji + Nakatanidou & Nara-machi

    Nara in One Day: Kofukuji + Nakatanidou & Nara-machi

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:33 Kintetsu-Nara Station: I'll be at the EAST ticket gate. walk 5 minutes
    • 9:40-10:30 Kofukuji + Nakatanidou
    • walk 15 minutes
    • 11:00-12:30 Kasuga-taisha Shrine
    • lunch at Muzuya Chaya) walk 5 minutes
    • 12:40 at the foot of Wakakusayama Hill: former katana sword manufacturer's shop
    • walk 5 minutes
    • 12:50-13:20 Todaiji's Nigatsudo Hall
    • walk 5 minutes
    • 13:30 Todaiji's Shoro Bell Tower
    • walk 5 minutes
    • 13:40-14:10 Todaiji's Great Buddha Hall
    • walk 5 minutes
    • 14:20-30 Todaiji's Nandaimon (South Great Gate)
    • taxi
    • 14:30-15:40 Nara-machi
    • 16:00 back at Nakatanidou (End of Tour)

    Title: What's a Private Day Trip from Kyoto to Nara Like? A Licensed Guide's Report I had sent the guests an itinerary in advance, including the train route from their hotel in Kyoto to Nara, but more than three months had passed, and on the night before the tour, they seemed anxious about the transfers, so we exchanged several messages. There are two options between Kyoto and Nara — JR and Kintetsu — and the Kintetsu platform can be hard to find. There have been cases where guests intended to arrive at Kintetsu Nara but ended up at JR Nara, cases where they became so confused they took a taxi all the way from Kyoto to Nara, and cases where a hotel concierge gave unreliable directions that only caused more trouble. Thanks to these exchanges, however, by the start of the tour it already felt as if we were old acquaintances, so perhaps it all worked out for the best. On my end, the JR train from my home was stopped for about 30 minutes due to a railroad crossing problem, and I nearly ran late. Instead of the usual walk from JR Nara Station to Kintetsu Nara Station (our meeting point), I took a taxi and just barely avoided being late. One of the guests ran around energetically all day and was still full of enthusiasm at the last stop, a sword shop in Naramachi. By evening, the Somei-yoshino cherry blossoms were about 20 percent in bloom. It was a wonderful day.

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

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

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

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

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

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1000 Grand Nikko Tokyo Daiba (Yurikamome Daiba Station 0) meet
    • 1030 Shimbashi
    • 1100 Asakusa Nakamise Senso-ji Temple Asakusa Shrine
    • 1250 Ueno Lunch at a soba restaurant in Sakura Terrace Shogitai Monument Saigo Statue Kiyomizu Kannon-do Stroll around the cherry blossom viewing area Stroll around Ameyoko
    • 1410 Tokyo Station~Marunouchi~Gyoko-dori Avenue~Tatsumi Yagura
    • 1600 Hatagaya Harley-Davidson dealership
    • 1630 See off to Akasaka-mitsuke Station, explain how to get to Shimbashi via the Ginza Line, and disband

    Can You See Cherry Blossoms on a Private Tokyo Day Tour in Spring? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting from Europe. They were on the final day of a two-week cruise. They had arrived in Tokyo by air at the start of the trip and stayed there before, it seemed, going to Mount Fuji. After that, they traveled through Kobe, Hiroshima, Kagoshima, Nagasaki, and a port in Asia before returning to Yokohama the previous night. During the advance planning, we had talked about the cherry blossom season, and I had included Shinjuku Gyoen in the itinerary as a backup (in case Ueno did not work out), since it has multiple varieties of cherry blossoms that bloom over a long period. Fortunately, at Senso-ji Temple and Ueno Park, while the Okanzakura had already gone to leaf, the weeping cherry trees were in full bloom and the Somei-Yoshino were about seventy percent open. Ueno Park was also lively with cherry blossom viewing gatherings, and the original goal was fulfilled, to their delight. In the morning, aboard the Yurikamome, they mentioned wanting to visit a Harley-Davidson shop, so I looked it up and found that Hatagaya on the Keio Line was nearby. Even now, the guests were still active riders. It seemed to be their custom to shop at local stores of that brand when traveling abroad. Since they were satisfied with the cherry blossoms at Ueno Park, we decided to skip Shinjuku Gyoen and head to Hatagaya to make this happen.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherDaiba~Shimbashi325JPY
    Section 2Free PassShimbashi~Asakusa700JPY
    Section 3Free PassAsakusa~Ueno0JPY
    Section 4TrainOkachimachi~Tokyo146JPY
    Section 5Free PassNijubashimae~Kokkai-gijidomae~Shinjuku-sanchome0JPY
    Section 6SubwayShinjuku-sanchome~Hatagaya298JPY
    Section 7SubwayHatagaya~Shinjuku-sanchome298JPY
    Section 8Free PassShinjuku-sanchome~Akasaka-mitsuke0JPY
    Total1,767JPY

    I had worked in the international business scene for over 40 years and traveled to North America and European countries over 1000 days.
    After I retired from the business, I traveled to most of the major sightseeing spots in all 47 prefectures in Japan.

    My guide is starting from a brief history of the site where I am going to guide. I usually add a briefing about Japanese culture based on religions, such as Shinto Shrine and Buddhist temples. A geographic background behind the history is also important.
    My course includes 4 to 5 (in 6 hours) sites from the following depending on where I will pick the guests up;
    – Senso ji Temple
    – Kappabashi Kitchenware Market
    – Tokyo Skytree
    – Ueno Park
    – Nezu Shrine
    – Imperial Palace outer park
    – Tokyo Central Station, Marunouchi historic district
    – Tsukiji Fish Market
    – Koishikawa Korakuen Garden
    – Ginza
    – Odaiba
    – Hama Rikyu Garden
    – Shinjuku Gyoen Garden
    – Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
    – Roppongi
    – Meiji Shrine
    – Harajuku & Takeshita Street
    – Shibuya
    – and Any of your interest.

    I am happy to introduce Japanese Manga/Anime cultures such as Akihabara, Nakano Broadway and Ghibli related sites.
    Travelling along the JR central line where guests can stopover at major animation studios (it is not accepted to visit the inside). The majority of animation studios such as TMS Entertainment, SUNRISE, A1 Pictures etc. are located in this area. Suginami Animation museum, Studio Ghibli and Ghibli Museum are also located.
    Guests can feel old houses in the Spirited Away scene in the Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum.

    I can also provide a pilgrimage to the sacred place (shooting location) for the Shinkai Makoto animation movies such as Your name, Weathering with you, and Suzume.

    Another interesting feature is to visit authentic Japanese style pub meals such as Yakitori, Karaage, and Sushi etc.
    Asakusa Hoppy Street, Ameyoko Street, Yurakucho, Shimbashi, Shinjuku Golden gai, Shinjuku Omoide Yokocho are nice to visit.

    A Sake tasting at Sake Cellar can be an option.

    In addition to the above, I am available in the neighboring cities.

    Kawagoe is an old town developed in the 17th century. It has very close relationship with the Edo central government. Kawagoe castle ruins, Kitain temple and 500 Buddha statues will welcome the guests.
    These areas are renovated and provide an old days atmosphere.
    Japanese style sweets food stands will fascinate the guests.
    Kawagoe is about 1 – 1.5 train trip from Tokyo.

    Kamakura is the first Samurai worriers government established in the late 12th century.
    The Buddhism are introduced to Japan in the 6th century, and flourished at Nara and Kyoto later. A newer Buddhism sect such as Zen has well developed at Kamakura area.
    Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, Gigantic Buddha statue at Kotokuin Temple and the flower temple Hasedera Temple are must-see.
    Kamakura is about 1 – 1.5 train trip from Tokyo.

    I am also happy to develop any other site the guests have interest.

    Jul 2, 2026
    Susan M
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Family fun in Tokyo.
    A wonderful day. Ted customized our tour…

    Jun 26, 2026
    ann r
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Educational with kind, generous guide
    My teenage sons and I learned…

    Jun 14, 2026
    141yunb
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Can’t believe all that we got to see in 6 hours
    We…

    May 18, 2026
    B
    Beth56646
    Great tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Ted and I agreed upon what we would see…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Ueno & Imperial Palace Walking Stay

    Tokyo in One Day: Ueno & Imperial Palace Walking Stay

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 ~10:20 Hotel Premier Asakusa International
    • 10:40~12:00 Ueno (Stay)
    • 12:20~12:30 Tokyo Station Tour (Stay)
    • 12:30~13:40 Tokyo Marunouchi Building Tempura Tenmaru (Lunch)
    • 14:00~16:20 Imperial Palace (Imperial Palace Front Garden, Nijubashi Bridge, Otemon Gate, Castle Ruins, Kitanomaru, Chidorigafuchi) Walking Stay
    • 16:30 Dismiss at Kudanshita

    Title: What's a Full-Day Private Walking Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Ueno and the Imperial Palace The guests were a group visiting Japan. The start was delayed by about 20 minutes because one of the guests went out to buy breakfast and lost their way. They said they would explore Asakusa on their own and asked me to guide them elsewhere, which was within my expectations, so we began with a tour of Ueno as planned. They took a keen interest in Japanese history and asked questions about all of my explanations, including the statue of Saigo Takamori, Kiyomizu Kannon-do, ukiyo-e, the Great Buddha, Toshogu Shrine, the five-story pagoda, and the temple bell. The cherry blossoms along Sakura Street were also quite in bloom, which was lovely. After explaining Tokyo Station, we had a tempura lunch at the Marunouchi Building at the guests' request. It was delicious and very enjoyable. After that, we went from the Wadakura Gate of the Imperial Palace to Nijubashi Bridge, and at the guests' request we walked to the Otemon Gate, viewed the castle ruins, entered Kitanomaru, and continued to Chidorigafuchi. The guests said they were able to walk, so we did, though one of the guests seemed tired toward the end. At the end they asked to take a photo of everyone together (although we had taken photos together in various places), and we enjoyed pleasant conversation throughout. However, I completely forgot to hand over the review.

    Hello,Mr.A,
    Thank you for choosing our tour. I would like you to enjoy your tour as much as possible.
    If you have any ideas to see or to eat in your mind, please tell me.
    If not, I will suggest traditional Japanese culture like Meiji-shrine, Tokyo Tower, Asakusa and beautiful traditional Japanese gardens like Rikugien and Hakone. If you want to try to eat typical Japanese food, I will introduce the Japanese restaurants. I woulld like to make an itinerary, including your request.
    Please enjoy Japanese traditional and leading-edge culture or beautiful nature
    I’m looking forward to seeing you.
    Best regards, Yoriko Ishibashi

    Apr 5, 2026
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  • Tokyo in One Day: Cherry blossom viewing at Yoyogi & Takeshita Street

    Tokyo in One Day: Cherry blossom viewing at Yoyogi & Takeshita Street

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:50: Meet at the b suidobashi lobby
    • 10:10: Support 2 guests with purchasing SUICA at Suidobashi Station
    • 10:40: Tour of Tsukiji Outer Market, food walking
    • 12:30: Cherry blossom viewing at Yoyogi Park
    • 14:00: Break at a cafe inside Meiji Shrine
    • 14:50: Stroll along Takeshita Street
    • 16:00: See Hachiko Statue and the Scramble Crossing in Shibuya
    • 16:30: Tour ends, disband

    What's a Private Walking Tour of Tsukiji and Yoyogi Park in Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The tour was for a group of guests. It rained in the morning, so the weather was a concern, but by the time the tour started the rain had stopped and the temperature rose. At Tsukiji, the guests enjoyed buying and eating whatever they liked, such as tuna sushi and grilled wagyu skewers. When I asked whether they still wanted to go to the planned lunch afterward, they said lunch was no longer necessary. Since it was cherry blossom season, I took them to Yoyogi Park, where the cherry blossoms were in fairly full bloom, and the guests were delighted, which was wonderful. The group had a lively time throughout, though toward the latter half one of the guests seemed a little tired.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainSuidobashi~Tsukiji324JPY
    Section 2SubwayTsukiji~Meiji-jingumae209JPY
    Section 3SubwayMeiji-jingumae~Shibuya178JPY
    Total711JPY

    Welcome to Japan!
    My name is Takeshi Yamada, a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter based in the vibrant city of Yokohama, Kanagawa.
    Born and raised in Minamiuonuma City, Niigata Prefecture, renowned for its exquisite rice and sake, I deeply appreciate Japan’s culinary delights. I love sharing laughs, exploring diverse cultures and histories, and playing tennis.
    I specialize in guiding tours around Yokohama, Kamakura, Fuji-Hakone, Tokyo, and the surrounding Kanto areas. With years of experience in multinational corporations, I excel in English communication and making foreign visitors feel at home.
    Whether you’re interested in historical landmarks, authentic cultural experiences, savoring Japanese cuisine, enjoying lively Izakaya spots, or soaking in urban energy, my tours are tailored to your interests. I am committed to providing exceptional service, ensuring each guest receives personalized attention and creates unforgettable memories.
    My greatest joy is seeing my guests fall in love with Japan, taking home cherished memories and a deeper understanding of this beautiful country.
    I look forward to meeting you and being your friendly, knowledgeable guide.

    See you soon!

    Jun 5, 2026
    cathywB8167WE
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    Great 8 hour tour of Tokyo
    Takeshi was great with…

    May 13, 2026
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  • Tokyo in One Day: Hibiya Station & Ueno Station

    Tokyo in One Day: Hibiya Station & Ueno Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meeting place: The Peninsula Tokyo
    • 9:10 Depart Hibiya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • Kasumigaseki Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line)
    • 9:30 Arrive Shinjuku-gyoemmae Station
    • Shinjuku East Exit Shinjuku Gyoen
    • 10:30 Depart Shinjuku-gyoemmae Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line)
    • Shinjuku-sanchome Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line)
    • 10:50 Meiji-jingumae Station
    • Harajuku Meiji Shrine
    • 12:00 Depart Harajuku Station
    • (JR Yamanote Line)
    • 12:15 Arrive Meguro Station
    • Meguro Meguro River
    • 13:00 Depart Meguro Station
    • (JR Yamanote Line)
    • 14:00 Arrive Ueno Station
    • Ueno Ueno Park
    • Ameyoko Shopping Street
    • Lunch: Kaisen Misakiko
    • 15:00 Depart Ueno Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • 15:30 Arrive Hibiya Station
    • 15:30 Dismissal: Hibiya Station

    Cherry Blossom Private Tour in Tokyo: What Does a Licensed Guide's Sakura Day Look Like? The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from the Caribbean region. Yesterday they arrived at Haneda Airport via a connection, and in the evening they explored the Yanaka area on their own. This time they are staying in Japan for about two weeks. After spending four days in Tokyo, they plan to travel around Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, and Hiroshima, and then fly from Kansai Airport to another destination in Asia. Tomorrow they plan to visit the Imperial Palace and go shopping in Ginza, and the day after they have a nighttime food-and-drink tour in Shinjuku scheduled. Today they requested a tour focused on "cherry blossom" spots. It rained in the morning, but the rain had stopped by the time we set out. The tour took place in weather that was warm and rather humid. First, we went to Shinjuku Gyoen. There was quite a large crowd, and the cherry blossoms were about half in bloom. I gave a brief explanation of "the history of Shinjuku Gyoen." We strolled around taking photos in various spots. There was a question: "How many varieties of cherry blossoms are there?" We moved to Harajuku. First, we visited Meiji Shrine. I explained topics such as "about the torii gate," "the Meiji Restoration and the history of Edo and Tokyo," and "about Emperor Meiji." I also explained "the differences between Buddhism and Shinto." There was also a question: "How many Christians are there in Japan?" The guests said, "It's wonderful that there is such a green park in the heart of the city." From here, we moved to the Meguro River. Unfortunately, the cherry blossoms were only about thirty percent in bloom, and there were few people about. We went around to Ueno Park. We strolled slowly through the park. The cherry blossoms were about fifty to seventy percent in bloom, and the guests enjoyed themselves at a leisurely pace. We took commemorative photos in various places. There were questions such as "When will they reach full bloom?" and "How do Japanese people enjoy hanami?" The guests said, "I'd like to come back once more the day after tomorrow." Since they said, "We're a little hungry and would like to eat sushi," we passed through the crowded Ameyoko shopping street and went to a seafood restaurant. The guests commented and asked things such as, "The people passing by are so quiet and polite," "There is no litter in the streets," and "Are there no homeless people in Japan?" They also commented, "The trains and subways are clean and quiet," and "We feel safe in terms of security." I saw them off at Hibiya Station, where we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayHibiya Station~Shinjuku Gyoen Station178JPY
    Section 2SubwayShinjuku-gyoemmae Station~Meiji-jingumae Station178JPY
    Section 3TrainHarajuku Station~Meguro Station167JPY
    Section 4TrainMeguro Station~Ueno Station208JPY
    Section 5SubwayUeno Station~Hibiya Station178JPY
    Total909JPY

    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.

    Jul 21, 2026
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