Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 10:00 Meet up@Hotel Roppongi Premier
    • 2. 10:30 @Roppongi (Roppongi Crossing, Tokyo Midtown Roppongi)
    • 3. 11:00 @The National Art Center, Tokyo (sandwich break)
    • 4. 11:40 @Meiji Jingu Shrine
    • 5. 12:30 @Harajuku Takeshita Street
    • 6. 13:00 Lunch@Ginza (Mitsukoshi basement food floor + 9th floor rooftop garden)
    • 7. 13:30 @Ginza (main street: Whisky Museum, GSIX, Kyukyodo, itoya)
    • 8. 14:00 @Imperial Palace (Sakuradamon Gate, Main Gate, Nijubashi Bridge)
    • 9. 14:30 @Tokyo Station (station plaza, station building, Yaesu exit)
    • 10. 14:45 @Nihonbashi (Sakura Street next to Takashimaya)
    • 11. 15:20 @Asakusa (Sensoji Temple, Asakusa Shrine, Sumida Park)
    • 12. 16:45 @Shibuya (Shibuya (Scramble Crossing, Hachiko Statue, FUKURAS)
    • 13. 17:30 Dismissal@In front of Pepper Parlor reception (inside FUKURAS)

    Title: What Can You See on a One-Day Private Cherry Blossom Tour of Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group from Europe visiting Japan for the first time. They had originally planned a trip to Japan before the pandemic but had to cancel due to COVID, so this was their first visit to Japan after five years of waiting. Because one of the guests had a strong interest in viewing cherry blossoms, and because their accommodation was close to Roppongi Station and Nogizaka Station, before heading by subway to our first destination, Meiji Shrine, we walked to the National Art Center while pointing out the cherry blossoms in the garden of Tokyo Midtown Roppongi. As we continued on to Aoyama Cemetery, a tunnel of cherry blossoms had formed, which the guests were delighted to see. They also discovered a cherry blossom tunnel on the Sakura-dori street beside Nihonbashi Takashimaya and took photographs there. Since the guests had eaten sandwiches at the National Art Center for breakfast, we decided to keep lunch light. When I introduced various Japanese bento boxes in the basement food hall of Ginza Mitsukoshi, the guests were in an excited mood as they purchased tenmusu, salmon rice balls, and yakitori, and we all enjoyed them together sitting on benches on the 9th-floor rooftop. The guests expressed a wish to buy Japanese whisky as a souvenir, so after lunch I introduced them to a whisky museum on Ginza's main street. They made plans to return another day to buy some. At our final destination, Shibuya, the guests planned to have a café break after the tour ended. There, at "Pepper Parlor" inside FUKURAS, where robots work, they became very excited the moment they saw it, and when we checked at the reception we found they could enter without a reservation (in the past, entry was not possible without one), so we said our goodbyes there.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassTokyo Metro Chiyoda Line Nogizaka Station~Meiji-jingumae Station700JPY
    Section 2Free PassTokyo Metro Chiyoda Line Meiji-jingumae Station~Hibiya Line Ginza Station0JPY
    Section 3Free PassTokyo Metro Yurakucho Line Ginza-itchome Station~Sakuradamon Station0JPY
    Section 4Free PassTokyo Metro Ginza Line Nihonbashi Station~Asakusa Station0JPY
    Section 5Free PassTokyo Metro Ginza Line Asakusa Station~Shibuya 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!…

  • Kyoto: Arashiyama & Gion

    Kyoto: Arashiyama & Gion

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10am Hotel pickup
    • 10:30-12:00  Arashiyama (Tenryu-ji Temple, Togetsukyo Bridge, Bamboo Forest, etc.)
    • 12:30-13:30 Kyoto Imperial Palace
    • 14:00-15:00 Ginkaku-ji Temple
    • 15:15-15:45 Gion
    • 16:00 Return to Hotel

    Guest: The guests preferred to keep things efficient, with few questions, and were satisfied by visiting only the essential locations. Since they mentioned plans to continue their trip to Kyoto and Osaka, I offered advice about the places they intended to visit.

    Hello!
    I am Joji. Please call me Bonjoji, because Bon Jovi is my favorite Rock group. I was born and raised in Kyoto, Japan. I graduated from University of South Carolina with Statistic major. During my work, I have lived in CA and NJ for 12 years. So, we can talk about the cultural difference between the USA and Japan from my experience as a student and as a businessman. My hobby is visiting old ruins in the world so that I have been to Vesa Merde in the USA, Macchu Picchu in Peru, Easter Island in Chile, Volbilis in Morocco, Tikal in Guatemala, Angkor Wat in Cambodia and etc. When I lived in the USA and visited these historical sites, I have been treated well as a family by many local people. So, it is a time that I treat you back well while you are traveling in Japan. I am official National Government Licensed English Guide Interpreter and my goal is simply to make your journey more comfortable, enjoyable and unforgettable. Please feel free to contact me and let’s enjoy the tour together.
    Bonjoji

    Apr 16, 2026
    kellywO6769DQ
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour with a great guide
    Joji was an excellent guide who…

    Apr 5, 2026
    D1147DVdamons
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great Guide
    Joji guided us through temples and a small bamboo forest…

    Apr 3, 2026
    558drews
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    The perfect guide for discovering Kyoto
    We had an exceptional experience with…

    Oct 25, 2025
    OnAir05338931895
    Tokyo Adventure with Joji
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We visited Japan in October of 2025, during…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 09:50 Meet @ Hotel Ryumeikan Tokyo
    • 2. 10:00 Travel: Subway
    • 3. 10:40 Stay @ Rikugien Garden
    • 4. 11:30 Travel: Train
    • 5. 11:40 Stay @ Yanaka
    • 6. 12:15 Lunch @ Risaku
    • 7. 13:30 Travel: Subway
    • 8. 13:40 Stay @ Nezu Shrine
    • 9. 14:20 Travel: Subway
    • 10. 14:30 Stay @ East Gardens of the Imperial Palace
    • 11. 15:30 Stay @ Imperial Palace Outer Garden, Marunouchi
    • 12. 16:20 Dismissal @ Hotel Ryumeikan Tokyo

    What Is a Private Walking Tour of Northern Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a cheerful group with remarkable stamina. Since I had heard that they were not interested in typical tourist spots or museums, I focused mainly on the quiet areas of northern Tokyo, with the exception of the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace. As on the previous day, I first guided them to Rikugien Garden, but it was far more crowded than the day before, apparently because it had been featured on television. Even so, the weeping cherry trees were even closer to full bloom, and it felt well worth the wait to see them. Since the guests had Suica cards, we traveled by JR from Komagome to the next stop, Yanaka. For lunch, we visited a rice ball shop near Sendagi Station for the first time in a while. Since we arrived right at lunchtime, we had to wait a little, but I think the guests were able to enjoy a local atmosphere not found at other restaurants. As the guests were not interested in shopping, we had extra time in the latter half. At the Imperial Palace, I took them all the way to the outer garden and then guided them through Marunouchi. Since their accommodation was near Tokyo Station, we continued on foot and parted ways in front of their hotel.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayNihonbashi Station~Komagome Station210JPY
    Section 2TrainKomagome Station~Nippori Station150JPY
    Section 3SubwaySendagi Station~Nezu Station180JPY
    Section 4SubwayNezu Station~Otemachi Station180JPY
    Total720JPY

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

    Jul 21, 2026
    G848SWmaribelm
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Tour of Tokyo sights was great!
    The tour experience…

    Jul 16, 2026
    Cezary P
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour of Tokyo!
    Sam, was outstanding! Showed…

    Jul 9, 2026
    Michael_C
    Tokyo tour
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour with a wonderful guide -…

    Jun 18, 2026
    David_W
    Viator review: Tokyo Tsukiji Food & Culture 4hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Fish Market Tour
    Great tour. Got to see…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Imperial Palace & Sensoji Temple

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Imperial Palace & Sensoji Temple

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:50 Meet up @ Hotel
    • 10:40 Imperial Palace
    • 11:50 Sensoji Temple
    • 13:20 Shibuya Scramble Crossing & Hachiko
    • 14:30 Disband @ Meguro River

    What's a Private Tokyo Sightseeing Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on the Imperial Palace, Senso-ji, Shibuya, and Meguro River The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from Europe. They planned to go on a cruise tour for two weeks after sightseeing in Tokyo. At the Imperial Palace, they listened with great interest to historical explanations about the role of the Emperor, the Meiji Restoration, and the Edo shogunate. At Senso-ji Temple, they were interested in explanations about the differences between temples and shrines, and they showed interest in the souvenir shops along Nakamise Street. In Shibuya, they were fascinated by the lively atmosphere of the Scramble Crossing. Along the Meguro River, the cherry blossoms had begun to bloom, and they were very pleased to be able to see them. Since they wished to stroll along the Meguro River at their own leisure, we parted ways there. As I accommodated the guests' wishes as requested, I believe they were satisfied.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainDaiba~Shimbashi330JPY
    Section 2TrainShimbashi~Tokyo150JPY
    Section 3SubwayYurakucho~Asakusa700JPY
    Section 4SubwayAsakusa~Shibuya0JPY
    Section 5TrainShibuya~Naka-Meguro140JPY
    Total1,320JPY

    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

    Jul 10, 2026
    surferbikerdude1
    Tripadvisor review: Kamakura Day Trip from Tokyo in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Beautiful Tour of Kamakura
    Seizo Kamiuto was out…

    Jun 9, 2026
    stacy_grana
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A wonderful day with an experienced guide
    Our guide, Seizo, was amazing.…

    Jun 6, 2026
    U9351HJjakes
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo Tour
    Seizo Kamiuto was great and super knowledgeable. He had a…

    May 20, 2026
    HugoJ670
    Tripadvisor review: Edo Tokyo & Japanese Culture Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Tokio in de zon
    Seizo Kaminto is een uitstekende…

  • Tsukiji & Asakusa Local Food Tour in 1 Day

    Tsukiji & Asakusa Local Food Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Meet at hotel→8:00~8:30 Travel to Tsukiji→8:30~10:00 Explore Tsukiji→10:00~10:30 Travel to Asakusa→10:30~11:30 Explore Asakusa→11:30~12:15 Sushi lunch in Asakusa→12:15~12:45 Travel to Meguro→12:45~14:00 Cherry blossom viewing and stroll along the Meguro River→Disband

    Private Tokyo Tour Report: Tsukiji, Asakusa, and Meguro River Cherry Blossoms by a Licensed Guide The guests were a cheerful and very friendly group visiting from North America. Since they mentioned they were big fans of sushi, I first took them to Tsukiji. They had visited Tsukiji about eight years earlier, before it relocated to Toyosu, so at that time they had been able to see the tuna auction. This time they seemed disappointed that it was no longer possible to view it. I asked whether they would like me to make a sushi reservation, but since some of the guests had eaten a large breakfast, they declined for the moment, and we decided to have a meal in Asakusa. It was their first visit to Sensoji Temple, so they were delighted and bought many souvenirs. They said they wanted to go to a long-established sushi restaurant, but since it did not open until after noon, we enjoyed conveyor-belt sushi instead. Afterward, we moved to the Meguro River, where they fully enjoyed the cherry blossoms in full bloom.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShiodome~Tsukiji286JPY
    Section 2SubwayTsukiji~Asakusa286JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa~Nakameguro317JPY
    Total889JPY

    Select a guide: enter the WordPress Guide post ID or Guide ID in the block settings.

    Oct 14, 2025
    Randi R
    Amazing tour of Tokyo with Yuji
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Yuji was an amazing guide.…

    Sep 30, 2025
    K6530TRangelor
    Great tour.
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our guide Yuji was excellent. He was very punctual and…

    Sep 19, 2025
    belindaf2022
    Tokyo highlights
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a wonderful day with being shown the key…

    Sep 8, 2025
    S8908ADcarolinab
    Family friendly guide
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a great experience with our 6 hour…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Tsukiji & Shibuya Scramble Square 12F

    Tokyo in One Day: Tsukiji & Shibuya Scramble Square 12F

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet @ Hotel
    • 9:00 Former GHQ ~ Imperial Palace Outer Garden ~ Nijubashi Bridge
    • 9:40 Tsukiji (Fish Market ~ Sushizanmai)
    • 11:00 Asakusa (Kaminarimon ~ Nakamise ~ Sensoji Temple ~ Nitenmon)
    • 12:30 Ueno Park
    • 14:45 Shibuya Scramble Square 12F
    • 15:30 Disband @ Hotel

    What Is a Private Tokyo Day Tour Like for Guests Boarding a Cruise? A Licensed Guide's Report Before meeting today's guests at the Hotel, I happened to run into guests from two days earlier who were now heading to Kyoto. I enjoyed the unexpectedly early reunion. Today's guests were visitors from North America enjoying their retirement years. After Tokyo, they planned to board a cruise ship. Because walking was difficult for one of the guests, this became a tour that avoided stairs entirely. The rain stopped just as we left the Hotel, so we got some great photos at the Nijubashi Bridge. At Tsukiji, we avoided the crowds and simply enjoyed a tasting comparison of three kinds of bluefin tuna at the fish market and Sushizanmai. At Sensoji Temple, one of the guests repeatedly wafted the smoke from the large incense burner onto their knee. It didn't seem to have any immediate effect. I debated between Chidorigafuchi and Ueno Park for cherry blossom viewing, and Ueno Park turned out to be the right choice. Depending on the tree, even the Somei Yoshino cherries were about eighty percent in bloom. While one of the guests rested on a bench, another took plenty of photos. For the scramble crossing, we viewed it from the 12th floor of a nearby building. I think the 3D advertisement of the dog seen from the 12th floor of that building might be more appreciated than the cat in Shinjuku.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayHibiya Line Hibiya~Hibiya Line Tsukiji178JPY
    Section 2SubwayGinza Line Asakusa~Ginza Line Ueno178JPY
    Section 3SubwayGinza Line Ueno~Ginza Line Shibuya209JPY
    Total565JPY

    Hello! My name is Hideki Maruyama. I was born in Osaka and raised in the Greater Tokyo area. I obtained my National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter Certificate in February 2016.
    I spent 23 years working at a leading Japanese automotive company, including 7 years posted overseas. I then worked for a German premium automotive manufacturer for 13 years, followed by 6 years as an advisor to a British energy company. Through these roles at global corporations, I developed and refined key skills such as:
    1. Cross-cultural communication
    2. A deep understanding of business elites and affluent customers
    3. The ability to deliver impactful and impressive presentations in English
    In addition to my regular duties, I often served as an interpreter for top executives during meetings with foreign government officials. I also had opportunities to introduce aspects of Japan—such as our national character and consumer preferences—to leadership teams in both the German and British companies.
    As a tour guide, I’ve had the pleasure of guiding guests from a wide range of countries especially after the pandemic, including the US, UK, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, Belgium, Switzerland, Austria, Norway, Romania, Slovenia, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, India, Hong Kong, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Brazil, Argentina, Columbia, Thailand, Malaysia, the Philippines, Laos, Turkey, Jordan, Kenya and Israel.
    When guiding, I always keep in mind to go beyond what guests can find on social media or ChatGPT. I believe my professional background allows me to offer unique insights, and I am encouraged when guests mention this in their reviews

    Jun 14, 2026
    tiffany_w
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Phenomenal experiance
    Hideki san was an amazing guide. He was incredibly knowledgable…

    Jun 13, 2026
    Joshua_A
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    The Best Guide I Had in Japan
    Hideki was, without question, my…

    May 2, 2026
    Bruce G
    Our guide (Hideki san) was a master. It was a rainy day and he suggested a new plan in anticipation…

    Apr 30, 2026
    johnbD9596UO
    Lovely Private tour of Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    My wife and I had a great…

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 9:00 Meet at Hotel Resol Akihabara
    • 2. 9:30 Ueno Park (Cherry Blossom Viewing・Toshogu Shrine・Kiyomizu Kannon-do Temple・Bell of Time・Hanazono Inari Shrine・Ana Inari Shrine・Statue of Saigo)
    • 3. 11:30 Asakusa & Sensoji Temple & Asakusa Shrine
    • 4. 13:00 Dismissal (at Asakusa)

    Title: What's a Private Cherry Blossom Walking Tour of Ueno and Asakusa Like? A Licensed Guide's Report We met in the lobby of the Hotel slightly ahead of the scheduled time and headed through light rain to Akihabara Station on the Hibiya Line. I had heard by email that one of the guests had some difficulty walking (though it was actually not noticeable at all to an observer), so I had looked up the location of elevators in advance and used the elevator entrance. At Ueno as well, after coming up to ground level by elevator, we took another elevator to reach Ueno Park. Perhaps because it was a weekday and still morning, even the row of cherry trees was not overly crowded, so we could walk slowly and take photos at a relaxed pace. After that, we visited Ueno Toshogu Shrine, Hanazono Inari, Ana Inari, the Bell of Time, Kiyomizu Kannon-do, and the statue of Saigo while enjoying the cherry blossoms. One of the guests loved taking photographs, and since not only Somei Yoshino but also many other flowers were in bloom here and there, they took a great number of photos. In Asakusa we also drew omikuji fortunes, and unfortunately one turned out to be "bad luck," which they tied to the wire rack, though they took it in good stride. The guests asked many questions, and although it was past 1:00 p.m. by the end, they invited me to lunch, and we ate together before parting ways at that restaurant (a ramen shop).

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayAkihabara~Ueno178JPY
    Section 2SubwayUeno~Asakusa178JPY
    Total356JPY

    Hello, I’m Masaaki Kurata. I have been conducting walking tours in Asakusa, Ueno, Yanaka and the East Garden of Imperial Palace since I joined an English guide volunteer club in 2016. I worked for 2 U.S. based companies in Tokyo for 41 years and retired in 2023. I developed good communication skills with people from other countries in my long career in those 2 companies. I was born in the suburb of Tokyo and I’m familiar with Tokyo pretty much. Since I retired and do not work for a company any longer, I can be flexible in making itineraries. I really want to make tourists happy by making fun and interesting communication.

    Jun 5, 2026
    Flyer544764
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Extraordinary submersion into Japanese history and culture~
    What an extraordinary 6 hr…

    Apr 27, 2026
    Eric_K
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Mac was a very good tour…
    Mac was a very good tour…

    Apr 23, 2026
    O4598GUpatriciat
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Exceptional Private Guide – Discovering the Hidden Side of Tokyo
    We had…

    Apr 2, 2026
    V742WEsusans
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Highly recommended tour
    Excellent friendly guidance from Mac. He greeted us at…

  • Hyogo in Half a Day: Hiromine Shrine & Egret Himeji Rooftop

    Hyogo in Half a Day: Hiromine Shrine & Egret Himeji Rooftop

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:45 Meet @ Hotel Himeji
    • 09:15 @ Hiromine Shrine
    • 10:45 @ Himeji Castle
    • 12:15 @ Egret Himeji Rooftop
    • 12:45 Disband @ Taxi stand in front of Himeji Castle

    Title: What Is a Private Himeji Castle and Hiromine Shrine Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. One of the group appeared to find steep stairs difficult, but overall we were able to move around smoothly. One of the guests had studied abroad in Japan for a year about fifteen years earlier and understood some Japanese, including reading and writing. The group arrived more than fifteen minutes ahead of the meeting time, so we were able to start early. At Hiromine Shrine, in addition to praying, they experienced the shrine's signature "Nine Star" prayer ritual behind the main hall (praying at the hole corresponding to one's own destiny star). One of the guests had brought a goshuincho (temple/shrine stamp book) and received a stamp entry. Both were very interested in Himeji Castle and listened attentively to the guide's explanations. Afterward, they were greatly moved by the panoramic view of Himeji Castle from the rooftop of Egret Himeji, where we stopped by. When I presented a handmade drawstring pouch, made by my sister, to one of the guests, the group was very pleased (one of the guests even knew the Japanese word "kinchaku" for drawstring pouch). After this, they wished to visit Mount Shosha and Engyoji Temple on their own, so I guided them to the taxi stand and explained things to the driver, and we parted ways there. Once again, these were guests who were very fond of Japan and truly pleasant to guide.

    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
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Local Food & Culture Tour in 1 Day, Licensed Guide
    Amazing Food Tour through Osaka
    We were taken…

    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…

    Jul 13, 2026
    Diane_B
    Viator review: Kobe Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Our tour guide Yama was amazing!!
    Our tour guide…

    Jul 4, 2026
    Navigator661725
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A wonderful time!
    We absolutely loved this tour. Yama was attentive, was…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Asakusa

    Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Asakusa

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:20 Depart Aloft Ginza
    • 8:30-9:00 Tsukiji Intermediate Wholesalers Building
    • 9:30-10:15 Meiji Shrine
    • 10:20-10:50 Yoyogi Park
    • 11:00-11:30 Hedgehog Cafe Harry
    • 11:30-12:00 Takeshita Street
    • 12:00-12:30 Lunch at Masaya
    • 12:40-13:15 Travel via Chiyoda Line and Ginza Line
    • 13:15-14:20 Asakusa
    • 14:30 Guide to Tokyo Skytree via Tobu Skytree Line. Explain the way back and finish.

    What Can You See on a Private Tokyo Day Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tsukiji, Cherry Blossoms, and Skytree The guests were visitors from North America. They had made a detailed plan and carried it out exactly as intended. They said they wanted to see cherry blossoms at Yoyogi Park and visit a hedgehog cafe, and they also wanted to go to the Tokyo Skytree, so those reservations were arranged in advance. Rain was forecast in the morning, but by the time we left Tsukiji the rain had completely stopped and it was almost hot. We were able to see the cherry blossoms beautifully, and they were delighted that the lunch at the izakaya was exactly as they had hoped.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayTsukiji~Meiji-jingumae209JPY
    Section 2SubwayMeiji-jingumae~Asakusa257JPY
    Section 3TrainAsakusa~Tobu Skytree157JPY
    Total623JPY

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

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

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

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

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

  • Tochigi in One Day: Chuzenji Onsen bus & Futarasan Shrine

    Tochigi in One Day: Chuzenji Onsen bus & Futarasan Shrine

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:20 Meet up @ JR Nikko Station
    • 10:35 Board the bus
    • 11:20 Arrive at Chuzenji Onsen bus stop
    • 11:30 Kegon Falls
    • 12:00 Lake Chuzenji
    • 12:15 Board the bus
    • 12:42 Get off the bus, lunch @ Maruhide Diner
    • 13:30 Rinnoji Temple
    • 14:00 Toshogu Shrine
    • 15:10 Futarasan Shrine
    • 15:35 Board the bus
    • 16:00 Disband @ JR Nikko Station

    Title: What Is a Private Day Tour of Nikko Like, Including Toshogu and Lake Chuzenji? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Oceania. They were very cheerful and pleasant. Early in the morning, just after 7:00, I received a message saying they were in a state of panic at Tokyo Station because there was so much they did not understand, and that they had managed to get reserved seats on the Shinkansen after waiting in line. However, it seemed they would have to wait about 50 minutes at Tokyo Station, and with that particular train the connection at Utsunomiya Station was poor, meaning nearly another hour of waiting. I looked into it, thinking there should be an earlier option, and found one that they could just make in time. I messaged them: "I'll explain the reason later, but for now please go straight to platform 23 and board any of cars 1 to 5 of the Nasuno 253." Even though they did not fully understand, they trusted me and boarded exactly as instructed. After they were on board, I explained everything, told them they could relax and sit in the non-reserved seats, and reminded them to transfer at Utsunomiya as planned. They arrived smoothly in Nikko, and we met with smiles. Because they checked their messages diligently and responded flexibly and quickly, they seemed to enjoy even this long journey, which I was truly glad about. With the original train, they would have been exhausted just from getting there, and we would have had fewer places to visit. I was grateful that they trusted and followed my instructions. Today there were very strong winds, and at Kegon Falls and Lake Chuzenji the wind was so powerful that even walking was difficult. But they seemed to find even that amusing, and despite spending only a short time in the far reaches of Okunikko, they enjoyed it. Since I had heard about a shellfish allergy, I checked with the owner of the restaurant, confirmed that no such ingredients were used, and let them enjoy their meal with peace of mind. By the time we toured Toshogu Shrine, the wind had calmed down, so we were able to take our time. At times, the guests sensed keenly what I was trying to say and helped explain, in an easy-to-understand way, points that were hard to convey due to the limits of my English. They were truly wonderful guests, and although the day had its share of challenges, it was a very enjoyable one.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusJR Nikko Station~Chuzenji Onsen1,250JPY
    Section 2BusChuzenji Onsen~Nishisando-mae1,150JPY
    Section 3BusFutarasan Shrine-mae~JR Nikko Station350JPY
    Total2,750JPY

    Hello! My name is Yumi. The Nikko area, Nasu area, in Tochigi Prefecture, and Aizu and Shirakawa area in Fukushima prefecture, where I will be guiding you, are not only surrounded by beautiful nature in all four seasons but are also full of historical attractions. Nikko, in particular, is a great place to learn about the culture and history that has shaped Japan to this day. In order for you to truly enjoy your day, I am flexible to your wishes and will prepare your day to be a great day. Because I am a local guide, you will surely see some sights that are not in the guidebooks. Is local food one of your favorite parts of your trip? I am also a sushi-making instructor for foreigners, so food is one of my specialties. I am also a certified sake navigator. Why don’t you come and enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with me?

    Jul 1, 2026
    laine164
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A wonderful day!
    We had a wonderful time exploring Nikko.
    Our friendly…

    Apr 7, 2026
    V2097LInickd
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great Guide Yumi Highlights Nikko on walking tour
    Our 16,000 step tour…

    Apr 4, 2026
    O4367MVkarenv
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Fantastic day in Nikko
    We had a fantastic day with Yumi. She…

    Nov 10, 2025
    Salutory
    A fascinating tour with a friendly and knowledgeable guide
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our guide, Yumi…