Category: Uncategorized

  • Osaka: Osaka Castle and stay there & Kuromon Market / Dotonbori

    Osaka: Osaka Castle and stay there & Kuromon Market / Dotonbori

    Osaka Instagram Spots Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    March, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at Hotel Cordia Osaka
    • 9:00-11:50 Move to Osaka Castle and stay there.
    • 12:15-13:50 Stay at Shitennoji Temple
    • 14:10-15:10 Kuromon Market / Dotonbori
    • Around 15:25 Namba Yotsubashi Line（End of tour）

    Title: What's a Private Family Day Tour of Osaka Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time. Since it was their first visit, they contacted me several times with questions, such as how to add a Suica to a smartphone and how to handle transportation fares, so in the end we used a one-day pass, which at 310 yen was the cheapest option and could be purchased quickly. At first some of the guests were a little fussy and would not look toward the camera, but they gradually got used to things, and by the second half of the tour they were walking along energetically. Some of the guests were bright and seemed genuinely interested in things about Japan. They enjoyed taking Instagram-worthy photos, and I took several group photos for the guests as well. They took pictures of the early-blooming cherry blossoms, in front of Osaka Castle, and at Shitenno-ji, where they especially liked the pagoda. They do not eat pork, raw fish, or octopus, so we decided to have soba near Shitenno-ji. We wrote our name in the reservation book and stopped by again on the way back from Shitenno-ji, and it was just our turn. It was such a popular spot that they were pleased. Since they had only arrived in Osaka the day before after a nine-hour flight, we decided to skip Tsutenkaku and instead enjoyed the Kuromon Market and Dotonbori. At the Kuromon Market, they bought strawberries, a favorite of the guests, at a reasonably priced greengrocer to eat at their accommodation. Whenever they bought something at a convenience store, they always asked whether there was anything I wanted too, and I felt as though I had become part of a warm family. It was a truly lovely group to guide.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayHigobashi～Tanimachi 4-chome190JPY
    Section 2OtherOsaka Castle～Park exit near Tanimachi 4-chome300JPY
    Section 3SubwayTanimachi 4-chome～Shitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka190JPY
    Section 4SubwayShitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka～Nipponbashi190JPY
    Total870JPY

    Tour Report by Yuki

    Hi! I’m an official English guide in Wakayama prefecture. I’m also a national guide as well. I’d like to expand my guide area to help tourists.
    The town of Osaka offers a different atmosphere than Tokyo. I like both exciting Osaka and nature-filled Wakayama Prefecture.
    If you stay in Osaka for 3 days, you can go to Koyasan for one day, or even for a day trip, so I recommend sightseeing at Koyasan.
    If you are tired of the hustle and bustle of the big city, the nature of Koyasan will relax you.
    I will introduce you to the unique culture, history and must-see sights.

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    Jun 23, 2026
    Shelley_E
    Viator review: Osaka 6hr Private Walking Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    There is much to do in…
    There is much to…

    May 28, 2026
    Duncan_R
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A Great Tour of Kyoto
    The tour was both very informative and…

    May 28, 2026
    ignaciosilenzi
    Tripadvisor review: Mt. Koya Sacred Full-Day Private Tour (Osaka departure) with Licensed Guide
    Amazing day in Koyasan with Miyuki
    Miyuki was…

    May 23, 2026
    189mirjamf
    Tripadvisor review: Mt. Koya Sacred 6hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Grandioser Einblick in eine fremde Kultur
    Sehr nette und…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    March, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Pick up at the hotel → 10:00-11:00 Stroll through the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace → Move to Shibuya → 11:00-11:30 Experience Shibuya Crossing and enjoy the view from above Starbucks → Move to Harajuku → 11:45-13:00 Stroll through Takeshita Street and Omotesando → 13:00-14:00 Enjoy a sushi lunch at Harakado → Move to Tokyo Tower → 14:30-15:30 Tour Tokyo Tower and disband here.

    What Is a Private Tokyo Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Shibuya, Harajuku, and Tokyo Tower The guests were very cheerful and considerate toward me as well. They were very well-behaved throughout the day. Thinking that visiting only temples and shrines might become tiring, I consulted with the guests and changed the plan from Asakusa to Shibuya and Harajuku. They did a lot of shopping on Takeshita Street and enjoyed it immensely. At the guests' request, we also had sushi, which everyone enjoyed without getting bored. At the final stop, Tokyo Tower, the weather was clear, so the guests were able to enjoy a full panoramic view of Tokyo.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayTakebashi～Shibuya209JPY
    Section 2TrainShibuya～Harajuku146JPY
    Section 3SubwayMeiji-jingumae～Kamiyacho178JPY
    Total533JPY

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

    Request Booking

    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: Haneda Airport Terminal 3 Station & Shinagawa Station

    Tokyo: Haneda Airport Terminal 3 Station & Shinagawa Station

    Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide

    March, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00 Meeting point: Yokohama International Cruise Terminal Osanbashi Pier
    • Nihon-odori Station
    • (Minatomirai Line)
    • Yokohama Station
    • (JR Tokaido Line)
    • Shinagawa Station
    • (Keikyu Main Line Airport Rapid)
    • 12:00 Arrive at Haneda Airport Terminal 3 Station
    • Haneda Airport Qatar Airways Counter
    • 12:30 Haneda Airport Terminal 3 Station
    • (Keikyu Airport Line Airport Rapid)
    • 13:00 Arrive at Asakusa Station
    • Asakusa Senso-ji Temple
    • Nakamise-dori Shopping Street
    • Asakusa Shrine
    • 14:00 Depart Asakusa Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Nihombashi Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Tozai Line)
    • 14:30 Arrive at Otemachi Station
    • Tokyo East Gardens of the Imperial Palace
    • Nijubashi Bridge
    • 15:30 Depart Nijubashimae Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • 15:40 Arrive at Hibiya Station
    • Hibiya Lunch: Hibiya Chanter
    • to "Tsukiji Sushisei"
    • 16:40 Depart Hibiya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • Omotesando Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 17:00 Arrive at Shibuya Station
    • Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • Hachiko Statue
    • Break: Starbucks
    • 18:00 Depart Shibuya Station
    • (JR Yamanote Line)
    • 18:30 Shinagawa Station
    • (Keikyu Main Line Airport Rapid)
    • Haneda Airport Terminal 3 Station
    • 19:00 Dismissal: Haneda Airport Terminal 3 Station

    Title: What Can You See on a Private Day Tour of Tokyo Between a Cruise Arrival and a Night Flight? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe, making their first trip to Japan. The main purpose of this trip was a cruise from Asia to Yokohama. The ship docked at Yokohama Port around midday today. Since they were scheduled to fly home from Haneda Airport that night, they wished to use the time in between for a tour within Tokyo. On its way to Yokohama, the cruise ship had stopped at Nagasaki, Osaka, and other ports, and the guests had enjoyed day trips in Osaka and Kyoto. Their request was: "With limited time, we would like to visit only the main spots." It turned out to be a wonderfully clear, sunny day for the tour. First, they said, "We would like to do something with our luggage (three suitcases plus a backpack)," so we headed to Haneda Airport to check it in with their departing airline (a codeshare flight). I was a little worried about whether they would be able to check it in, but it was accepted without any problem, and we set off carrying only hand luggage. From there, we first went to Asakusa. As always, it was very crowded. I explained about "Senso-ji Temple and the history from Edo to Tokyo," "what the five-story pagoda is," "what Buddhism is," and "the difference between Buddhism and Shinto." There were questions such as, "Do all Japanese people believe in Buddhism?" and "What kind of teaching is Shinto?" There was also a question: "Are there Christians in Japan?" The guests drew omikuji fortunes (both drew "good fortune" and were delighted). They also bought an amulet for "safe childbirth" as a souvenir. We took a leisurely stroll along the Nakamise shopping street. From there, we went to the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, entering before closing time. We walked through the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace. A few early-blooming cherry trees could be seen, and we took commemorative photos in front of them. Again, I explained topics such as "from the Edo period to the Meiji era," "the Meiji Restoration," "why Edo Castle became the Imperial Palace," and "an overview of the current Imperial Family." They remarked, "The pine trees are beautiful," and asked questions such as "Does the Japanese Emperor hold political authority?" They said, "We really want to eat sushi in Japan. We often go to Japanese restaurants back home," so we went to a sushi restaurant in Hibiya. They said, "It's fresh and delicious. And the price is extremely reasonable." We moved to Shibuya. I explained about "the history of Shibuya." We walked across the Scramble Crossing and took commemorative photos in front of the Hachiko statue. They also commented, "Japanese people are all so polite," "There is no litter in the streets," and "We were impressed by how clean the public restrooms are." I saw them off at Haneda Airport Terminal 3 Station, where we parted ways.

    Click here for more details: Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinagawa Station～Haneda Airport Terminal 3 Station327JPY
    Section 2TrainHaneda Airport Terminal 3～Asakusa599JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa Station～Otemachi Station178JPY
    Section 4SubwayNijubashimae Station～Hibiya Station178JPY
    Section 5SubwayHibiya Station～Shibuya Station178JPY
    Section 6TrainShibuya Station～Shinagawa Station178JPY
    Section 7TrainShinagawa Station～Haneda Airport Terminal 3 Station327JPY
    Total1,965JPY

    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.

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    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…

  • Kurashiki Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kurashiki Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kurashiki Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    March, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 13:00 Hotel Gran Cocoe Kurashiki – 13:15 Kurashiki Kan – 13:25 Kurashiki Denim Street – 14:15 Kurashiki Ivy Square – 15:10 Achi Shrine, Tsurugatayama Park – 16:00 Important Cultural Property Ohashi House – 16:40 Dining at Ario Kurashiki – 17:20 Disband at Hotel Gran Cocoe Kurashiki

    Title: What's a Private Walking Tour of Kurashiki's Bikan Historical Quarter Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Body: The weather forecast had predicted a high chance of rain, around 70% from the afternoon, but it did not rain at all and the day was very comfortable. The temperature rose to nearly 20 degrees, and I was slightly surprised to see the cherry blossoms already about 20% in bloom, which was a fortunate turn. In the Bikan Historical Quarter, there were two wedding ceremonies taking place, and the guests were moved as they captured them in photographs. The plum blossoms were also in full bloom, and the guests seemed touched by the exotic fragrance of the daphne flowers. At a jeans shop, the guests purchased two high-quality pairs. At the Ohashi House, they thoroughly enjoyed the architecture and lifestyle of the old days, and at Kurashiki Ivy Square they enjoyed the former Meiji-era spinning mill site. Afterward, they took in a view of Kurashiki City in spring from the elevated Achi Shrine and park, and enjoyed some Japanese sweets. The wisteria trellis said to be the oldest in Japan, with a tree reportedly 400 years old, was a month too early for the flowers, but they were able to appreciate the tree itself. At a dining spot near the end of the tour, they enjoyed sushi and beer. The guests were visiting from the Middle East, and with an easygoing and open-minded nature, it was a pleasure to guide them.

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

    Tour Report by Sam

    My name is Susumu Hiramatsu. I am a national government licensed guide interpreter. I became a guide interpreter in 1992. My educational background started with a BA in law, then an MA in English language education, and completed a doctoral course without a degree in English language teaching. My occupational career began with a bank officer, then shifted to a translation and interpretation company, finally became a freelance translator, interpreter, and college teacher. I handle conference interpretation, namely simultaneous interpretation. As for the guide interpreter, my interest covers wide areas including politics and business, but I deem cultural aspects to be fundamental. I am always encouraging myself to be filled with Japanese hospitality.

    Request Booking

    Jun 20, 2025
    NinjaTwins2013
    Kurashiki walking tour
    Tripadvisor review: Kurashiki Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We enjoyed our walking tour of Kurashiki. Our guide…

  • Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour

    Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour

    Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    March, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 11:45 Meet @ Himeji Station Central Ticket Gate
    • 2. 12:20 @ Castle View
    • 3. 12:45 @ Himeji Castle
    • 4. 14:45 @ Koko-en Garden / Tea Room (Souju-an)
    • 5. 15:40 @ Egret Himeji Rooftop
    • 6. 15:50 Disband @ Egret Himeji Rooftop

    What's a Private Himeji Castle Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guests were first-time visitors to Japan from Europe. They had arrived at Kansai Airport the previous day, making Himeji their very first sightseeing destination in Japan. After meeting up, the guests stored their suitcases in a coin locker and had breakfast at a nearby cafe, after which we began the tour. After explaining an overview of Himeji Castle at the Castle View, we toured Himeji Castle and Koko-en Garden. The cherry blossoms at Himeji Castle had not yet bloomed, but there were already many tourists. The guests were deeply impressed by the grandeur of Himeji Castle. At Koko-en Garden, they also joined a tea ceremony and were very pleased. After Koko-en, we went to the rooftop of Egret Himeji, and after admiring Himeji Castle from a distance, we concluded the tour. The guests seemed to have thoroughly enjoyed the tour.

    Click here for more details: Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Norio

    Hello, my name is Norio Oki, a Government-Certified Tour Guide in Japan.
    I specialize in guiding visitors through the beautiful and historic regions of Himeji and Kobe.

    My expertise includes Japanese history, traditional culture, castles, and sake. I enjoy sharing not only facts, but also the stories and spirit behind each place.

    In Himeji, I offer guided tours of Himeji Castle, Kokoen Garden, Shoshazan Engyoji Temple, and Nadagiku Sake Brewery.
    In Kobe, I guide guests through the Nada Sake Breweries area, Mt. Rokko, Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden, Harborland, Meriken Park, the Kitano District, Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, and the lively Motomachi Shopping Street.

    Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or local experiences, I will create a personalized tour tailored to your interests.

    If you’re planning to visit Himeji or Kobe, I would be delighted to be your guide.
    I look forward to meeting you soon!

    Request Booking

    Jul 7, 2026
    77guye
    The best way to experience Himeji Castle
    Tripadvisor review: Himeji Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    What a great way to…

    May 30, 2026
    karenpG5549XU
    Loved our tour
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a great tour with Norio, would highly…

    May 28, 2026
    TrailBlazer741528
    Kobe Variety.
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our delightful guide, Norio, was knowledgeable and a master at…

    May 23, 2026
    sarahpR5911DJ
    Himeji castle with Norio
    Tripadvisor review: Himeji Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We learnt lots about Himeji castle and it…

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    March, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1.10:00 Meet @ Hilton Kyoto
    • 2.10:20 @ Nijo Castle
    • 3. 11: 45 @ Kinkaku-ji
    • 4. 12:35@ Ryoan-ji
    • 5. 13:35 Lunch @ Arashiyama "Chojiya"
    • 6. 14:20 @ Tenryu-ji
    • 7. 15: 00 @ Bamboo Grove Path
    • 8.15:40 Disband @ Arashiyama

    Title: What's a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Nijo Castle, Kinkaku-ji, and Arashiyama Body: The guests were visiting from Europe. Since the itinerary had been decided in advance through email exchanges, we started the tour right away. I had also arranged the Nijo Castle tickets online beforehand, so the visit went smoothly. We had originally planned to use the subway and bus, but at Nishioji-Oike the guests requested a taxi, so we took a taxi to Kinkaku-ji, Ryoan-ji, and Arashiyama. When a sudden shower came, it rained during lunch and stopped just as we finished, which was lucky. The guests were very pleased. During lunch, one of the guests mentioned an iodine allergy. They ordered curry udon and checked several times whether it contained seaweed nori. I assured them it did not, and after eating, they happily said, "It was delicious!" After seeing the bamboo grove and Togetsukyo Bridge, the guests said they would do some shopping at the shops and that I could head back, so we parted ways there. They did not seem to like photos, but I was able to take just one quickly.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKyoto City Hall～Nijojo-mae220JPY
    Section 2SubwayNijojo-mae～Nishioji Oike220JPY
    Total440JPY

    Tour Report by Shoko

    I am an experienced guide, who live in Osaka. I have been a Government-Licensed Guide in English since 2018. I have already guided a lot of tourists overseas in Kansai Area, that is, in the vicinity of my prefecture, Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, Kobe, and Himeji. I am especially good at guiding in Kansai Area with sufficient knowledge of history, culture and transportation. I have guided people ranging from a small group of one or two to a group of 20-50 people in a big bus, that is, a coach. I like delicious food, because Osaka is a city of Kuidaorre, which means that people in Osaka love to eat and never spend too much money on food. Therefore, as an Osakan, I will do my best to explore restaurants which serve most delicious foods in wherever I take to my guests.

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    Mar 31, 2026
    Michael A
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Perfectly customized tour
    Shoko San did an amazing job planning a…

    Mar 29, 2026
    judyl582
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Shoko was great
    Shoko was an excellent guide. From the moment she…

    Oct 8, 2025
    441gayh
    World Heritage Kyoto places with the best guide
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Absolutely perfect! SHOKO was…

    Oct 3, 2025
    Judi H
    Introduction to Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a wonderful tour with Shoko.
    She…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Akasaka-mitsuke Station & Harajuku Station

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Akasaka-mitsuke Station & Harajuku Station

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    March, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet up @The Prince Gallery Tokyo
    • 10:25 Akasaka-mitsuke Station
    • 10:35 Tsukiji Station
    • Fish market, Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 11:55 Tsukiji Station
    • 12:10 Ueno Station
    • Travel Concierge
    • 12:25 Ueno Park
    • 12:35 Ueno Station
    • 12:55 Harajuku Station
    • Meiji Shrine
    • 14:00 Disband @Meiji-jingumae Station

    Title: What Can You See on a Private 2-Day Tokyo Tour with a Licensed Guide? A Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe. I was assigned to guide them for two days, and after discussing the plan for the following day and considering the weather, I included cherry blossom viewing today. At the Tsukiji area, they were very interested in Japanese food culture, including dashi stock. At Ueno, I helped them exchange their JR Pass, and after viewing the weeping cherry tree at the entrance of Ueno Park, we headed straight to the station. We then moved to the west side to Harajuku. At Meiji Shrine, they seemed relieved to be away from the hustle and bustle and were very pleased with it. Since it was the day after their arrival in Japan and they were a little tired, I explained the route back to their hotel and said goodbye at the station. [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) is one of Japan's largest networks of government-licensed, English-speaking private tour guides, serving all 47 prefectures. Winner of Tripadvisor Travelers' Choice Best of the Best. Not affiliated with the Japan Guide Association.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayAkasaka-mitsuke Station～Tsukiji Station180JPY
    Section 2SubwayTsukiji Station～Ueno Station180JPY
    Section 3TrainUeno Station～Harajuku Station210JPY
    Total570JPY

    Tour Report by Lily

    Hi there! Thank you so much for hitting my page!
    I’m Yuriko, but please call me Lily!
    I’m a qualified guide and interpreter, proud to be awarded as one of the finalists of Japan guide awards 2025.

    I have conducted over 100 tours a year since March 2024, with more than 90% of my clients awarding a five-star rating.

    I love Japanese food(eating and cooking!), cultures such as traditional arts and crafts, and so much more! I’ve always explored places seeking new things and love to share them with you.

    I was born and raised in Tokyo(for over 40 years!) but used to live in the U.S. for a couple of years as a child.
    I am proud to be able to introduce the charms of Japan from multiple perspectives based on my experience of interacting with people from many different nationalities.

    I am happy to tailor an original plan or to arrange your bucket list advancing it to a better option.
    The following is my contact information:
    lilyjapanguide@gmail.com

    I’m looking forward to guiding and sharing the excitement of Japan!!

    Request Booking

    Sep 17, 2025
    785hongc
    Wonderful 6 hour Tokyo tour with Lily in September
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a…

    Sep 16, 2025
    H
    Hong_C
    A wonderful day tour of Tokyo in September
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Best relaxed educational…

    Jul 18, 2025
    Venture26940872209
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Lilly was an excellent guide .. lots of communication before the visit…

    Jul 1, 2025
    michaellG938KC
    Lily is the best. Highly recommended
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Lily is an amazing guide and…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Shinjuku Gyoen

    Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Shinjuku Gyoen

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    March, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:50　Meet @ Hotel Gracery Shinjuku
    • 09:30　Meiji Shrine
    • 11:00　Imperial Palace
    • 11:45　Lunch @ Aoyuzu Tora (Marunouchi Building)
    • 13:00　Tsukiji Market
    • 14:10　Shinjuku Gyoen
    • 15:05　Disband @ Hotel Gracery Shinjuku

    What Can You See on a Private Tour of Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report on Meiji Shrine, the Imperial Palace, and Shinjuku Gyoen The guests were visiting from North America and had been to Japan several times before. Since they had previously visited places such as Kyoto and Okinawa, this time they focused only on the Tokyo area. At Meiji Shrine, they listened with great interest to explanations about the differences between shrines and temples, and seemed deeply impressed by the quiet and solemn atmosphere. At the Imperial Palace, they were fascinated by historical explanations about the role of the Emperor, the Meiji Restoration, and the Edo Shogunate. At Shinjuku Gyoen, they appeared impressed by the early-blooming cherry blossoms and the beautiful Japanese garden. I responded according to the guests' wishes, so 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 1TrainShinjuku～Harajuku150JPY
    Section 2SubwayMeiji-jingumae～Nijubashimae700JPY
    Section 3SubwayTokyo～Tsukiji0JPY
    Section 4SubwayTsukiji～Shinjuku-gyoemmae0JPY
    Section 5SubwayShinjuku-gyoemmae～Shinjuku0JPY
    Total850JPY

    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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    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…

  • Tokyo in One Day: GOTOKUJI Temple & IMPERIAL PALACE

    Tokyo in One Day: GOTOKUJI Temple & IMPERIAL PALACE

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    March, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 meet in the 8F lobby of Hotel Gracery Shinjuku
    • 10:15 1. GOTOKUJI Temple
    • 12:00 2. SHINJUKU GYOEN NATIONAL GARDEN
    • 12:45 3. MEIJI JINGU SHRINE
    • 1:45 4. SHIBUYA CROSSING
    • 2:45 5. THE IMPERIAL PALACE
    • 3:40 see off at the Tokyo Station

    Title: What Can You See on a Private Cherry Blossom Tour of Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report on Shinjuku Gyoen and Tokyo Station The guests were visitors from Oceania. We had been able to communicate in advance through a messaging app. They were staying at a hotel known for its Godzilla head. They wished to obtain a SUICA card, so I helped arrange it together with them at the dedicated counter at Shinjuku Station. At Shinjuku Gyoen, cherry blossoms were in full bloom in many spots, including the areas featured on the information sites they had researched beforehand, and they were delighted to take photos in various places. According to the website, entry reservations are required on Saturdays and Sundays. Since they would be traveling on to Kyoto and had expressed a wish to see Tokyo Station in advance, I escorted them to Tokyo Station and took my leave.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassShinjuku-sanchome～Meiji-jingumae700JPY
    Section 2Free PassMeiji-jingumae～Shibuya – Otemachi0JPY
    Total700JPY

    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 spear 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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    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…

    Mar 26, 2026
    Chica717
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Amazing private tour with Masa!
    We had the absolute pleasure of spending…

  • Ishikawa in Half a Day: Nagamachi Samurai & Higashi Chaya

    Ishikawa in Half a Day: Nagamachi Samurai & Higashi Chaya

    Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    March, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Meet at Hotel Forza Kanazawa
    • 09:25 Nagamachi Samurai District (Nomura Family Residence)
    • 10:15 Kenrokuen Garden
    • 11:00 Kanazawa Castle
    • 12:20 Higashi Chaya District (Shima)
    • 13:00 Disband at Higashi Chaya District

    Title: What's a Private Walking Tour of Kanazawa Like? A Licensed Guide's Report I guided a guest from Europe around Kanazawa. At the samurai district, the guest showed interest in the earthen wall scenery, the beautiful garden of the Nomura Family Residence, and the traditional, luxurious upper-tier room. At Kenrokuen Garden, we enjoyed the cherry blossoms that had begun to bloom and the plum blossoms in full bloom. The guest also took an interest in the traditional architecture of Kanazawa Castle. In the Higashi Chaya District, I showed the guest the elegant rooms of Shima. The guest had brought a goshuincho (seal stamp book) and purchased a goshuin stamp at Utasu Shrine. This guest walked quickly and had an interest in technology and shrines.

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

    Tour Report by Sho

    I majored in civil engineering at a college and am interested in historical infrastructures. I have also guided foreign people around Ishikawa Prefecture, Toyama Prefecture, Gifu Prefecture, and Fukui Prefecture as an international activity of an English circle. I was a volunteer interpreter at the training camp for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games in 2021.

    Hokuriku region has a lot of sightseeing spots as follows, beautiful landscapes like Kenrokuen Garden and Tateyama, tasty food like traditional Kaga dishes and fresh seafood from Toyama Bay, traditional crafts like Kaga Yuzen dyeing, Takaoka copperware, and Inami woodcarving. I introduce these spots and historical infra tourism such as Kurobe dam and industrial tourism.

    I also work as a translator. I translated the Japanese firefly squid tourism pamphlet into English in 2020.

    https://www.linkedin.com/in/shoten-sasaki/

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    May 26, 2026
    C4211GUbrittanym
    Tripadvisor review: Toyama 6hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Great time in Toyama!
    Nice tour, guide was very nice and…

    May 14, 2026
    190kariml
    Great tour in Kanazawa with Sho
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa 4hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    We had a wonderful time…

    Jul 24, 2025
    Wander60650705961
    Delightful experience um Kanazawa
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa 4hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    We had the pleasure of taking a…

    Jul 2, 2025
    nuttineeyav
    Walking day in Kanazawa
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa 4hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    The old town was very nice to…