Category: Uncategorized

  • Kagoshima Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kagoshima Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kagoshima Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    March, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 6-hour walking course　08:20 Pick up => 08:40 Catch a taxi and depart from Marine Port　=> 09:20 Depart for Sakurajima by ferry => 09:40 Arrive at Sakurajima　=> 10:00 Depart by Sakurajima Island View Bus => 10:40 Arrive at Yunohira Observatory　=> 11:10 Depart from Yunohira Observatory　 => 11:25 Depart for Kagoshima City by ferry => 11:50 Depart from the ferry terminal by taxi for Sengan-en => 12:10 Arrive at Sengan-en　=> 13:50 Depart from Sengan-en to the glass workshop　=> 14:15 Depart from the glass workshop　=> 14:35 At the customer's request to go shopping, guided them to AMU Plaza at the Central Station, where the guiding ended. Lastly, handed the customer a note to show to the taxi for the return trip; received an email that they arrived back at the scheduled boarding time.

    Title: What Is a Private Walking Tour with a Licensed Guide in Japan Like? A Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe. As I had also spent time working in Europe and had visited their home city many times, we enjoyed reminiscing about that familiar place. One of the guests eagerly read the English explanations at various spots by translating them into their own language with Google. A memorable comment was that the explanations, especially those about the World Heritage sites, used unusually difficult English words, and they remarked that hardly anyone would know such vocabulary. Since they wished to spend the remaining time on shopping for souvenirs, I guided them to AMU Plaza at the end. They were a very pleasant group to guide.

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

    Tour Report by Tachi

    Dear Guest

    I am Guide for your Kagoshima Tour.
    My nickname is Tachi, short hair, 69 years old, wearing glasses and quite small.

    In Kagoshima, we can see many things in “What to expect”, like Sengan-en, Reimeikan, Terukuni Shrine, etc.
    Could you please select must-see spots from the list and let us know, we will create your customised itinerary.

    in addition, Could you please advise what kind of food/materials you want to eat for lunch?
    and also if you have, what food/materials you can not eat, or what food/materials are prohibited to eat ?

    thank you for your request
    best regard

    Hideto Tachimoto

    Request Booking

    Apr 4, 2026
    Giovanni_M
    Viator review: Port Pick-Up: Kagoshima Private Tour Licensed Guide ＆ Vehicle
    Fantastic
    Our experience was great and our guide Tachi was…

    Apr 3, 2026
    V2097LInickd
    Tripadvisor review: Kagoshima Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Enjoyable Guide around Kagoshima
    Tachi is an experienced, helpful and well organised…

    Mar 28, 2026
    James_M
    Viator review: Port Pick-Up: Kagoshima Private Tour Licensed Guide ＆ Vehicle
    Great tour guide
    Great tour guide. Friendly and went out…

    May 8, 2025
    Louann710
    Great day in Kagoshima!
    Tripadvisor review: Port Pick-Up: Kagoshima Private Tour Licensed Guide ＆ Vehicle
    Tachi was very responsive during the…

  • Hyogo in Half a Day: Akashi Kaikyo Bridge & Nankinmachi Chinatown

    Hyogo in Half a Day: Akashi Kaikyo Bridge & Nankinmachi Chinatown

    Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    March, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:30 Meet @ Kobe Naka Pier Passenger Terminal
    • 10:15 @ Akashi Kaikyo Bridge
    • 11:45 @ Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum
    • 13:00 @ Nunobiki Herb Garden
    • 14:15 @ Ikuta Shrine
    • 15:00 @ Nankinmachi Chinatown
    • 15:30 Disband @ Nankinmachi Chinatown

    What Is a Private Kobe Walking Tour for a Cruise Passenger Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guest was a visitor from Europe, arriving on a cruise ship while traveling. During the pre-tour confirmation stage, we had checked several times that the cruise ship would arrive at the Kobe Port Terminal, but upon arriving on site, it turned out that the terminal was mistaken and the correct one was the Naka Pier Cruise Terminal. I quickly headed to the correct Naka Pier by taxi and arrived by the meeting time, so we were able to meet without any problem. When I explained this situation to the guest, they were very gracious about it. The tour started as planned. The guest was a very strong walker and we were able to move around smoothly. In fact, as a guide who takes pride in walking, I had never before experienced being able to move at the same pace as a guest. Since a family member of the guest is married to someone from Kobe, they were very fond of Japan and repeatedly said "everything about Japan is wonderful," to the point where I almost felt embarrassed. The guest was also very knowledgeable about plants and taught me the names of various trees and flowers along the road, not to mention in the herb garden. At Ikuta Shrine, they were delighted to find a single cherry tree that had somehow just begun to bloom. (They had given up on seeing cherry blossoms this time.) They had also said from the outset that they wanted to try "Kobe beef," and they enjoyed it very much at a restaurant I recommended in Nankinmachi. Also in Nankinmachi, they were pleased to find the statue of their zodiac animal, the sheep. Photography also seemed to be a hobby of theirs, and they took many pictures. I presented them with a handmade drawstring pouch, which they were very happy to receive. It is hard to express, but among all the native English speakers I have interacted with, I felt this guest spoke the most beautiful English. I even wished I could spend more time with them to study English, and in the end we parted ways after going over the scheduled time by about an hour. Special note) This time the pier where the cruise ship arrived differed from the initial information. While I believe the guest did not pay much attention to the information from me, I also recall receiving cautionary notes from your company, and I keenly felt the responsibility of the guide for neglecting to confirm in advance with the relevant authorities (such as the local port authority). This time there was no actual change from the beginning, but occasionally the arrival pier can change just one or two days beforehand, so continued caution will be necessary. In Kobe, there are only two places where cruise ships dock, and they are located relatively close to each other, so it was fortunate that we were able to meet without any problem this time as well.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainMotomachi～Maiko320JPY
    Section 2TrainMaiko～Sumiyoshi410JPY
    Section 3TrainSumiyoshi～Sannomiya200JPY
    Section 4SubwaySannomiya～Shin-Kobe210JPY
    Total1,140JPY

    Tour Report by Yama

    Dear my guests,

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

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

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

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

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

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

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    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 Half a Day: Departure: Shinjuku Station & Ueno Station

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Departure: Shinjuku Station & Ueno Station

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    March, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meeting place: Hotel Century Southern Tower
    • 10:10 Departure: Shinjuku Station
    • (JR Yamanote Line)
    • 10:40 Arrive at Komagome Station
    • Komagome Rikugien Garden
    • 11:40 Depart from Komagome Station
    • (JR Yamanote Line)
    • 11:50 Arrive at Nippori Station
    • Yanaka Yanaka Ginza
    • 12:30 Sendagi Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • 13:30 Arrive at Nezu Station
    • Nezu Nezu Shrine
    • 13:30 Depart from Nezu Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • 13:40 Arrive at Yushima Station
    • Yushima Kyu Iwasaki-tei Garden
    • Ueno Ameyoko Shopping Street
    • 15:00 Depart from Ueno Station
    • (JR Yamanote Line)
    • Akihabara Station
    • (JR Sobu Line)
    • 15:30 Arrive at Shinjuku Station
    • 15:00 Dismissal: Shinjuku Station

    Title: What Can You See on an Off-the-Beaten-Path Private Tour of Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe, both visiting Japan for the first time. The main purpose of this trip was a cruise voyage arriving at Yokohama Port. They had arrived at Yokohama Port the previous day and taken a taxi to their hotel in the city. The night before, they had strolled around the area near their accommodation. They planned to stay in Tokyo until the day after next, then return home by flight. Their request was: "Tomorrow we intend to visit the famous sightseeing spots on our own. Today, we would like you to guide us to places that ordinary tourists don't usually visit." The tour took place in pleasant, warm weather. First, we took the Yamanote Line to Komagome. I explained the origins and history of Rikugien Garden. The weeping cherry tree at the entrance was in about half bloom, which delighted the guests. We took commemorative photos. One remarked, "I've planted a cherry tree in my own garden at home, but it never turns out like this." They also said, "I would love to create a Japanese garden like this in my own yard." Next, we took the Yamanote Line to Nippori Station. I explained the history and current state of Yanaka Ginza. They commented, "There aren't too many tourists, and this atmosphere is wonderful." They purchased a furoshiki wrapping cloth as a souvenir. We visited Nezu Shrine. I explained topics such as "what Shinto is," "the difference between Buddhism and Shinto," "the history of Edo and the Meiji Restoration," and "the Japanese Imperial Family." There was also a question: "How many Christians are there in Japan?" We then went to the former Iwasaki Garden. There were few tourists and no international visitors to be seen, and the guests were very pleased. I explained topics such as the Meiji Restoration and the Mitsubishi zaibatsu. They said, "The interior furnishings are magnificent," and "It preserves a sense of old England." After this, they expressed a wish to "peek into a Japanese market," so we went to the Ameyoko shopping street. They said, "It's noisy, but you can feel the energy." They also commented, "Japanese people are all so quiet in the streets and very polite," "The streets are clean and there's no litter scattered about," "It's quiet inside the subway," and "The public restrooms are clean and pleasant." I saw them off at the new station, and we parted ways.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinjuku Station～Komagome Station178JPY
    Section 2TrainKomagome Station～Nippori Station146JPY
    Section 3SubwaySendagi Station～Nezu Station178JPY
    Section 4TrainNezu Station～Yushima Station178JPY
    Section 5TrainUeno Station～Shinjuku Station209JPY
    Total889JPY

    Tour Report by Masa

    Guiding career:
    Guide work started in July 2022. A guide focused on FIT compliance.
    FY2022 results: 17 cases, FY2023 results: 97
    Destinations: Various places in Tokyo, Hakone, Kamakura and Nikko
    As a recent group travel record, in October 2023, we have a track record of guiding a group of 33 people from Singapore to Narita Airport transfer plus sightseeing in Tokyo.
    Self-introduction:
    In the past, I was stationed in Canada, the United States, and Mexico as an expatriate of a Japanese bank for over 11 years.
    Since I have been mainly involved in the financing business in the United States for a long time, I think I am able to provide interpretation and translation services related to business and finance.
    I am a certified CPA in the United States.
    In addition, for three years from April 2016, I will be engaged in Japanese-English translation work (part-time), and I can also handle translation work.
    Although I don’t have a qualification in Spanish, but I think I can handle day to day conversation in Spanish without any problems.
    My hobby is trekking and from time to time, take a walk around mountains near Tokyo like Mt. Takao, Tanzawa, etc. I think it is possible to provide tourist information here as well.
    Since April 2015, I have been working as a Tokyo Metropolitan Tourism Volunteer and Tokyo Metropolitan Disaster Prevention Volunteer.
    One more, I have a separate house near Asuka Village, Nara prefecture, and I stay there for a total of about 30 days every year and have been enjoying sightseeing personally in the vicinity. Therefore, I think in the Kansai region, especially in Nara, Asuka, Yoshino, Koyasan, Kumano Kodo, etc., where I think I will be able to tour guide with confidence.

    Request Booking

    Jul 21, 2026
    Christelle_G
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour guide
    Masa san is extremely knowledgeable and…

    Jul 1, 2026
    97TexAg
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Amazing day in Tokyo
    Masa was our tour guide. Masa was an…

    Jun 2, 2026
    Tagare S
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour and guide!
    This is a great tour, and our…

    Jun 1, 2026
    Lisa_A
    Viator review: Private Tokyo Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Adler Family Tour
    Our tour with Masa was…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Character Street & Sengakuji

    Tokyo in One Day: Character Street & Sengakuji

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    March, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet @ Hotel Niwa
    • 9:30 Nezu, Yanaka
    • 12:00 Lunch @ Sora no Iro
    • 13:00 Character Street
    • 14:30 Sengakuji
    • 16:00 Disband @ Mita Station platform

    Title: What's a Private Tokyo Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Yanaka, Ramen Street, and Sengakuji The guests were visiting from North America. One of the guests brought a teddy bear along, which at first seemed a little unusual, but they were very warm and kind guests. Since one of the guests walked quite slowly and another had some considerations to keep in mind, I guided them carefully. As the guests were wearing masks and yellow sand was also drifting in, I wore a mask while guiding for the first time in a while. The guests had requested Nezu, Yanaka, Shibuya, and Takeshita Street in advance, but after discussing together, we changed the afternoon plans. To reduce the walking burden, we took a bus from Nezu to Yanaka. The guests did a lot of shopping at Yanaka Ginza, and we were able to see fully bloomed weeping cherry blossoms at Chomeiji Temple. One of the guests requested a gluten-free ramen shop, so for lunch we ate at Ramen Street in Tokyo Station. They said gluten-free ramen was not available where they live and were very pleased with how delicious it was. It gets crowded, so I was glad we went early. When I mentioned that Tokyo Station also has Character Street, they wanted to go, so I guided them there. Along the way, since one of the guests had an Android phone and could not download Mobile Suica properly, I helped them purchase a Welcome Suica at Tokyo Station and also showed them the Shinkansen ticket gates. On the way to Shibuya, I learned that one of the guests wanted to visit the graves of the Ako samurai, so I asked if they would like to go now, and we suddenly headed to Sengakuji Temple. At Sengakuji, we offered incense at the graves of the forty-seven samurai, and although we ran a little over time, we also visited the museum on the temple grounds since we were there. As Sengakuji was outside the "what to expect" itinerary, the guest kindly covered the guide's admission fee. I had intended to see them off at their hotel, but when I took them to the transfer station, they said it was already past time and that this was fine, so we said goodbye there. Even before we met, the guests were extremely grateful for many things, which made it a very pleasant experience to guide them.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainSuidobashi～Ochanomizu150JPY
    Section 2SubwayShin-Ochanomizu～Nezu180JPY
    Section 3BusNezu-jinja-mae～Sendagi 3-chome210JPY
    Section 4TrainNippori～Tokyo170JPY
    Section 5TrainTokyo～Shinagawa180JPY
    Section 6TrainShinagawa～Sengakuji150JPY
    Section 7SubwaySengakuji～Mita180JPY
    Total1,220JPY

    Tour Report by Yoko

    I’m Yoko Kusumoto, a government lisenced English-speaking guide.
    I have been living in Tokyo for more than 20 years, and it’s my pleasure to show you around Tokyo. I recommend Meiji Shrine and Asakusa if you are first time in Japan. I also recommend off-the-beaton path spots like Fukagawa Fudodo and Gotokuji Temple(lucky cat temple).
    I was born and brought up in Kamakura, where the first shogun’s government was established. It will be my pleasure to introduce you my hometown as well.

    I live with my husband and one teenage son.
    I like traveling, flowers, sewing, quilting, scrapbooking, and exploring Tokyo.

    I’m looking forward to hearing from you soon.

    Request Booking

    Jun 2, 2026
    ericahT6840AD
    Awesome!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our day with Yoko was great! She took us to some…

    May 20, 2026
    CharKris17
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo Walking Tour
    We did a six-hour walking tour of Tokyo with…

    May 3, 2026
    jefftK1794VZ
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Fantastic day exploring Tokyo
    This was our first time visiting Tokyo and…

    Oct 23, 2025
    Y6401BOshaunam
    Knowledgable, engaging guide Yoko Kusmoto made day of Tokyo history, architecture and insights exceptional. le.
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa & Meiji Shrine

    Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa & Meiji Shrine

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    March, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Meet @ Hotel
    • 9:15 Asakusa (Kaminarimon, Nakamise, Senso-ji, Denboin-dori)
    • 11:00 Shinjuku Gyoen
    • 12:15 Kabukicho (Godzilla Head, 3D Cat Billboard)
    • 12:45 Meiji Shrine
    • 14:00 Dismissal @ Hotel

    Title: What Can You See on a Private Tokyo Walking Tour in Spring? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Oceania on their first trip to Japan. The temperature rose from the morning, and the guests were dressed in short sleeves. Although it looked cloudy due to yellow dust, the sunlight was strong, and one of the guests purchased a hat at the Nakamise shopping street in Asakusa. (Reflection: For two weeks in a row, I have had guests buy a hat in Asakusa. Going forward, I will advise guests to bring a hat with them when leaving the hotel if they have one.) At the Gyoen, the Oshima cherry blossoms, Takato cherry blossoms, and weeping cherry blossoms were blooming even more magnificently than two days before, and the guests were very satisfied. A few Somei Yoshino blossoms were also in bloom. At the request of the guests, I showed them the Godzilla Head and the 3D cat advertisement in Kabukicho. Since it was hot today and we walked a long distance, I paid careful attention to keeping the guests hydrated. Even so, fatigue set in, so we skipped visiting the Shibuya Scramble Crossing and returned to the hotel.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayGinza Line Shimbashi～Ginza Line Asakusa220JPY
    Section 2TrainAsakusa Line Asakusa～JR Sendagaya356JPY
    Section 3TrainJR Shinjuku～JR Harajuku146JPY
    Section 4SubwayChiyoda Line Meiji-jingumae～Chiyoda Line Hibiya178JPY
    Total900JPY

    Tour Report by Hideki

    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

    Request Booking

    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 in Half a Day: Nishi-Shinjuku Station

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Nishi-Shinjuku Station

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    March, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meeting point: Hotel Groove Shinjuku
    • Shinjuku Shinjuku Station・Ekitabi Concierge
    • 10:30 Nishi-Shinjuku Station
    • (Toei Subway Oedo Line)
    • 10:40 Tochomae Station
    • Shinjuku・West Exit Tocho Observation Deck
    • 11:30 Depart Tochomae Station
    • (Toei Subway Oedo Line)
    • Nishi-Shinjuku Station/Shinjuku Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line)
    • 11:40 Arrive Shinjuku-gyoemmae Station
    • Shinjuku Gyoen Shinjuku Gyoen
    • 13:00 Depart Shinjuku-gyoemmae Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line)
    • 13:10 Arrive Shinjuku Station
    • Shinjuku Lunch: Hidakaya
    • Shinjuku Golden Gai
    • Kabukicho
    • Omoide Yokocho
    • 14:30 Dismissal: Shinjuku Station

    Title: What Can You See on a Private Walking Tour of Shinjuku, Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from Europe. They arrived at Haneda Airport the previous night and reached their accommodation by transferring trains. They mentioned they had strolled around the neighborhood and bought sandwiches at a convenience store to eat. This time, they were on a longer trip through Japan, staying in Tokyo for only a few days. Afterward, they planned to travel to Hida-Takayama, Kanazawa, Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, and Hiroshima, then return to Tokyo before heading home. The following day they planned to visit Disneyland. Today, they requested a tour focused mainly on the Shinjuku area. The tour took place in warm, almost hot weather, with fairly strong winds, and amid yellow sand and cedar pollen in the air. Since they wanted to buy a Suica card, we first went to the Ekitabi Concierge. After that, we headed to the observation deck of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building. Amid long, crowded lines, we waited and made our way up to the North Observatory. I explained topics such as "the history of Edo and Tokyo" and "the current state and challenges of Tokyo." There were questions about "Tokyo's population, transportation network, average rent, and the number of foreign residents." They remarked, "We now understand what a vast, sprawling city this is." Next, we moved to Shinjuku Gyoen. Some cherry blossoms had already begun to bloom, and the garden was crowded with many visitors. I explained "the history of Shinjuku Gyoen." They took photos again and again in front of the blooming cherry blossoms and were delighted. There was also a question: "Are there any events that Japanese people hold during the cherry blossom season?" After that, we went to the east exit of Shinjuku. Since they wanted to eat ramen, we went to a ramen shop. Following that, we first visited Golden Gai, where I briefly explained its origins and current state. Even though it was midday, two or three shops were open, and several groups of foreign tour groups were strolling through. They said, "We'd like to come out here tomorrow night." After this, we walked through and I guided them around the Godzilla Head, Kabukicho, and Omoide Yokocho, offering explanations along the way. They commented, "Unlike London, Japanese people are all polite," "The streets are clean and there is no scattered trash," "The public restrooms are clean and pleasant," and "It's hard to find trash bins on the streets." We parted ways at Shinjuku Station.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShinjuku West Exit Station～Tochomae Station178JPY
    Section 2SubwayTochomae Station～Shinjuku West Exit Station178JPY
    Section 3SubwayShinjuku Station～Shinjuku-gyoemmae Station178JPY
    Section 4SubwayShinjuku-gyoemmae Station～Shinjuku Station178JPY
    Total712JPY

    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
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    Amazing day in Tokyo
    Masa was our tour guide. Masa was an…

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    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
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    Viator review: Private Tokyo Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
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  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    March, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • AM 08:30 Tour start
    • Move to Arashiyama
    • AM 09:20-10:30 Tenryu-ji Garden, Bamboo Grove tour
    • Move to Fushimi Inari
    • AM 11:10-PM 12:20 Fushimi Inari tour and street food lunch
    • Move to Kiyomizu-dera
    • PM 13:00-14:00 Kiyomizu-dera tour
    • Sannenzaka, Ninenzaka
    • PM 14:15 Tour end

    What Is a Private Car Tour of Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Fushimi Inari and Kiyomizu-dera The guests were visiting Japan for the first time and stayed only in Tokyo and Kyoto. In Tokyo they had joined a food tour, but in Kyoto they wanted to experience history and culture, so I explained Japanese history and religion during the car rides, which helped them enjoy each sightseeing spot even more. At the guests' request, we had lunch at the food stalls of Fushimi Inari, which left us with plenty of time and made for a full and rewarding tour that the guests were very pleased with. After visiting Kiyomizu-dera, the guests wished to enjoy some shopping, so the car service ended after dropping them off at Kiyomizu-dera.

    Click here for more details: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by YOSHI

    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!

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    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。

  • Kyoto: Togetsukyo Bridge & Sanjusangendo

    Kyoto: Togetsukyo Bridge & Sanjusangendo

    Arashiyama Bamboo Forest & Sagano Tour with Licensed Guide

    March, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Hotel Premier Kyoto Shijo
    • Meet up
    • 10:10 Togetsukyo Bridge
    • 10:25 Arashiyama Music Box Museum
    • 11:15 Tenryuji Temple Garden
    • 11:45 Arashiyama Bamboo Grove Walk
    • 12:00 Okochi Sanso Villa
    • 2:10 Lunch at Yukiya Pontocho Main Store
    • 3:30 Sanjusangendo
    • 4:00 Disband in front of Sanjusangendo

    What Can You See on a Private Arashiyama and Kyoto Day Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report Today I guided a group visiting from North America. We crossed the Togetsukyo Bridge and visited the Arashiyama Music Box Museum, which was one of the requested destinations. A staff member explained the rare antique music boxes in English. After that, we visited the Tenryu-ji Temple garden and the Okochi Sanso Villa. Since one of the guests was hoping to turn their home garden into a Japanese-style garden, they were pleased to find these places a helpful reference. The guests enjoyed shopping at the Snoopy shop in Arashiyama, a Japanese confectionery store, and a unique clothing boutique, and then had a late lunch at Yukiya Honten in Pontocho. Near the nearby Sanjo Ohashi Bridge there was a spot where the cherry blossoms were in full bloom, and they took many photos. To save time, we finished by taking a taxi to Sanjusangen-do Temple. I believe the guests enjoyed the day.

    Click here for more details: Arashiyama Bamboo Forest & Sagano Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKarasuma～Arashiyama240JPY
    Section 2TrainSaga-Arashiyama～Nijo200JPY
    Section 3SubwayNijo～Sanjo Keihan220JPY
    Total660JPY

    Tour Report by Kaeko

    Thank you very much for choosing JGA experience, and please allow me to briefly introduce myself. I’m Kaeko Tanigawa, your tour guide, and I have been showing tourists from abroad around mainly in Kyoto, Nara and Osaka areas. Every year I’ve guided my guests through those areas for over 80 times. I always try to do my best to help my guests explore and enjoy our unique and attractive locations, and I’ve been lucky enough to receive so many 5-star reviews from the guests I hosted. I’d like to help make your visit to Japan one of the most wonderful memories in your life. I’m really looking forward to seeing you soon. Thank you very much.

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    Jul 25, 2026
    135ulrikh
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Half-day with private guide in Kyoto
    We spent half a day…

    Jul 24, 2026
    J6711TVnancyb
    Tripadvisor review: Japan Guide Agency
    Family Fun Day in Kyoto with young children
    Kaeko Tanigawa was fantastic at helping us create…

    Jul 13, 2026
    elizabethtW414DU
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto Private Tour
    Kaeko was absolutely amazing from start…

    Jul 12, 2026
    johnkE8649IH
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Excellent Kyoto Day Tour
    We had a wonderful experience touring Kyoto…

  • 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) Hotel meet-up at 13:00, go to Nijo Castle by Keihan and subway
    • 2) Nijo Castle 13:40-14:30, go to Demachiyanagi by taxi
    • 3) Demachiyanagi 14:50-15:20, go to Ginkakuji by taxi
    • 4) Ginkakuji 15:40-16:20, go to Kiyomizu-dera by taxi
    • 5) Kiyomizu-dera 16:50-17:40, walk to Yasaka Pagoda and Gion
    • 6) Say goodbye around 19:00 in front of the Uji tea shop in Gion

    Title: What's a Full-Day Private Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report from [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) This was a private Kyoto tour for a group visiting Japan. The group had requested places that show the natural, everyday culture of Kyoto, mentioned an interest in history, and expressed a wish to visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple, so I first guided them to Nijo Castle. One of the guests had watched the drama "Shogun," and seemed to find Nijo Castle very interesting. The group also took many photos of the Karamon Gate, saying it was beautiful. Next, I guided them to Demachiyanagi shopping street, which retains a strong local character, and since they had never tried takoyaki, they enjoyed some in front of a shop. At a Japanese sweets shop in the shopping street, the group bought and ate daifuku mochi and shiromochi, and they seemed to really like the mochi. Then I had them cross to the opposite bank over the stepping stones set in the river, which the group seemed to enjoy. At Ginkaku-ji Temple, they seemed to love the moss garden, saying it was beautiful. On the way back along the approach, I treated them to Ginkaku mochi at a shop selling it, and they were very pleased. The group did indeed seem to be very fond of mochi. At Kiyomizu-dera Temple, they experienced ringing the orin bell and pouring water over the water-blessing Kannon Bodhisattva. On the way back from Kiyomizu-dera, one of the guests wanted to buy a matcha-whisking set, so I guided them to a pottery shop where they purchased one. Next we went to the final destination, Gion, and while I was explaining the differences between geiko and maiko, we were able to spot a geiko, and the group took photos. Finally, they wanted to buy matcha, so I guided them to a shop selling Uji tea and the like, and after their purchase, it was around 19:00. Since they said they would stroll around the area for a while, we parted ways here. They thanked me for planning so many things.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShichijo Station～Sanjo Station170JPY
    Section 2SubwaySanjo Keihan～Nijojo-mae220JPY
    Total390JPY

    Tour Report by Hiro

    Nice to meet you.
    My name is Hiroki Muramoto, please call me Hiro.
    Hiro in Japanese means large or big. Although I’m neither large nor big, you can call me Hiro. How are you doing ?
    I lived in a city nearby Kobe city. Do you know Kobe ? Kobe is famous for Kobe beef and pearl. If you have not yet had Kobe beef, you should taste the authentic Kobe beef. It is very satisfying taste. But I have recently moved to a city in Kyoto prefecture, so I can be in Kyoto city in about one hour. By the way, I am a family of four. I have a son and a daughter. My son now works in Tokyo. I sometimes go to Tokyo to see him. Tokyo is a huge city, but too crowded, so it seems not to suit me. I seem to be better suited to a small city than a big one. Where do you live in ? How many families do you have ? If you like, please tell me about them. I worked in the quality assurance department of a pharmaceutical company and visited the factories of foreign affiliated companies, so I became interested in foreign cultures and obtained a qualification as an interpreter guide in 2015.

    I have been a guide for about eight years. During that time, I have guided in Kyoto, Osaka, Kobe, Nara, Kochi and so on, although I could do little guiding work between 2020 and 2022 due to COVID-19. However, since last year, my guiding work has been back! So, I am happy to be able to meet different people again. My hobby is travelling, but sadly, I am not in a position to travel abroad easily at the moment due to the very weak yen, and I hope to travel abroad again when the situation eases a bit more.
    How many countries have you been to so far ? Which countries have you liked so far? Another hobby is watching sports – baseball and football. Do you like the baseball ? Do you know Otani, Japanese baseball player ? He has joined Dodgers in Los Angeles this year. I look forward to another successful year for Otani.

    By the way, what interests you in Japan? Food, history, scenery ? As far as tourist attractions are concerned, famous places are too crowded. If you like, I also would like to show you some less crowded places. Are you interested in experiencing something ? If you want to experience something, I can suggest an experience plan for you. If so, please contact me as early as possible. As for food, what kind of food do you like? There are many kinds of delicious food. Of course, you can get good food in fine restaurants, but you can also get good food in downtown restaurants. If you like alcohol, why don’t you try Japanese sake? It can range from light and fragrant to rich in flavor, so you’re sure to find a Japanese sake you like.

    My motto is “Be content with life.” However, I find myself complaining all the time. If you like, please tell me your motto. I want to treat all guests who visit Japan with the spirit of “Treasure every encounter” and guide them so that they can enjoy themselves and have good memories of Japan.
    You only live once (YOLO). So, I also want to enjoy it with you.

    I look forward to meeting you.
    Best regard.

    Request Booking

    Nov 27, 2024
    Julianne_A
    Book it
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    This was a wonderful experience with our guide Hiro. He…

  • Shizuoka: Shiraito Falls & Obuchi Sasaba

    Shizuoka: Shiraito Falls & Obuchi Sasaba

    Mt. Fuji View Shimizu Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    March, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • ※Travel by customer-reserved taxi
    • 9:00　Meet at Shimizu Port
    • 10:10　Shiraito Falls
    • 11:10　Lake Tanuki
    • 12:00　Lunch @ McDonald's
    • 12:40　Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha Shrine
    • 1:30　Obuchi Sasaba
    • 2:40　See-off at Shimizu Port

    Title: What's a Private Fuji Day Tour from Shizuoka Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. One of the guests had worked at a U.S. military base in Japan long ago and spoke a little Japanese. Everyone was very much looking forward to seeing Mount Fuji, but unfortunately the yellow sand haze was severe and visibility was almost completely white. Even so, once we entered the city of Fuji, Mount Fuji began to appear faintly, and it remained visible throughout the sightseeing. It probably could not be seen from within Shizuoka City. I was truly glad we chartered a taxi and came all the way to Fujinomiya. At Sengen Shrine, we were also able to see another highlight: cherry blossoms in full bloom, and the guests took many photos. Once they had seen the cherry blossoms they seemed satisfied, so the visit to Sengen Shrine ended quickly. For lunch, the guests wished to have a quick lunch, so we went to McDonald's. They were surprised that a staff member delivered the order to the table and that the restaurant was so clean. They were also amused by a menu item named after a samurai. When we said goodbye, the guests told me that it had been a truly wonderful day, that they had been able to visit places they could not reach on their own or by bus tour and had seen magnificent scenery, and that they were grateful for my constant attentiveness. These were kind and heartwarming words. As a guide, I feel even more motivated to keep improving. The photo was taken at Lake Tanuki.

    Click here for more details: Mt. Fuji View Shimizu Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Grace

    Nice to meet you. I’m your guide, Grace. My Japanese name is Rie. Each kanji has its own meaning—“Ri” means profit, and “E” means grace, so I chose the nickname Grace. You can call me either Rie or Grace; I’d be happy with either. Let me start by giving you a brief introduction about myself.

    I was born in Shizuoka and grew up there. I could clearly see Mount Fuji from my elementary school, junior high school and high school I attended. Looking back, it was a very fortunate environment, isn’t it? Since I saw Mount Fuji every day, I became able to predict the weather by observing the shape of the clouds over Mt.Fuji.

    After I got married, I lived in the United States due to my husband’s job. I spent about five years in New Jersey and California. While my children attended preschool and elementary school, I participated in school volunteer activities. The experience at an American elementary school is something I still treasure to this day. As part of this volunteer activity, I brought Japanese calligraphy brushes and ink, and wrote the names of all the students in Japanese, hiragana. If you’re interested, I would be happy to write your name in hiragana as well, so please look forward to it.

    After returning to Japan, I obtained the qualification of a licensed tour guide. Currently, I mainly guide cruise ship passengers who come to Shimizu Port. In addition to the famous tourist spots in Shizuoka, I also introduce hidden gems and old townscapes that only locals know about. Additionally, having raised two children in Shizuoka, I believe I know some great spots that children will enjoy. Please feel free to share what your children like or are interested in, and I would be happy to help you find the best places to visit.
    I’m looking forward to the day when I can tour Shizuoka together with you.

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    Jun 17, 2026
    GatorPappi
    My. Fuji & Shizuoka tour
    Tripadvisor review: Port Pick-Up: Shizuoka Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    Grace was excellent and someone…

    Sep 14, 2025
    C
    Cindy_S
    Best Mt Fuji Tour
    Viator review: Shizuoka/Shimizu Mt Fuji View 6 hr Private Tour: Guide Only
    Perfect day with our…

    Jul 29, 2025
    test_pilot_guy
    Lifetime Memories with Grace
    Tripadvisor review: Shizuoka/Shimizu Mt Fuji View 6 hr Private Tour: Guide Only
    My family LOVED our day…

    Jul 7, 2025
    Go18332474202
    Cruise Day Shimizu Port
    Tripadvisor review: Shizuoka/Shimizu Mt Fuji View 6 hr Private Tour: Guide Only
    The tour was amazing!!! Grace…