Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • Hotel 11:00 ~ Meiji Shrine 11:30 ~ Takeshita Street 12:30 ~ Omotesando 13:00 ~ Asakusa 13:30 ~ Akasaka-mitsuke Dismissal 15:10

    Title: What Is a Rainy-Day Private Walking Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. At first it was difficult to reach them, and even when a reply came, it was only a few lines with no specific requests about where they wanted to go. It turned out that their hotel had changed from the original one, and even after I wrote that I would come to meet them there, an email arrived saying they were unsure of the meeting point, so it was an eventful start. Once I learned the name of the hotel, I called to confirm their stay, and after phoning three times—in the morning, evening, and night—I was finally able to reach one of the guests. Until then I had been in contact with another of the guests, so this person did not know the background and was also unsure where the list of requests was, so I explained everything from the beginning and was finally able to confirm their requests after 10 at night. I then created several plans and sent them. The decision came at 10 in the morning. When we were able to meet at the Hotel at 11 and set off, I felt very relieved. It was raining, but everything proceeded as planned. The guests kindly said that walking through sightseeing spots while learning about the history and culture was wonderful. I accompanied them as far as Akasaka-mitsuke, guided them to the exit, and we said our goodbyes.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShinjuku-sanchome~Meiji-jingumae180JPY
    Section 2SubwayOmotesando~Asakusa260JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa~Akasaka-mitsuke210JPY
    Total650JPY

    Hello, I’m Hizuru.
    I have a passion for sharing my knowledge and love for Japan with visitors from all over the world.
    After teaching English and Japanese to Elementary school and Junior high school students for about 15
    years, I got the National License of Guide and Interpreter in 2014 which allowed me to officially guide
    tourists around Japan.
    I have guided many tourists around Tokyo and its vicinities, helping them to discover the hidden gems of the
    city and learn about its rich history and traditions.
    Whether you’re interested in visiting historical landmarks, trying delicious Japanese cuisine, or experiencing
    the vibrant pop culture scene, I can tailor a tour suit your interests.
    My experience as a teacher greatly helped me in this role as I was able to efficiently communicate and engage
    with people from different backgrounds and cultures.
    I am dedicated to providing an unforgettable and insightful experience for all my guests.
    I look forward to welcoming you to in and around Tokyo and sharing the wonders of Japan with you.

    Oct 14, 2025
    vanessajK6787GS
    Great day out and about in Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Hizuru was an absolute delight.…

    May 23, 2025
    Inspire25413313092
    Tokyo walking tour 2025
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Sally did a great job putting together a…

    May 3, 2025
    davidfZ3537PI
    Great tour with Hizuru!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great private tour with Hizuru! Prior to the…

    Apr 17, 2025
    Sharon_F
    Sampling of everything in one day!
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great sampling of lots of different…

  • Tokyo in One Day: East Gardens of the Imperial Palace

    Tokyo in One Day: East Gardens of the Imperial Palace

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00 Meet at Hotel
    • 11:25 East Gardens of the Imperial Palace
    • 13:00 Asakusa (Skytree photo)
    • 14:55 Shinjuku Gyoen
    • 16:00 Meiji Shrine
    • 16:40 Harajuku Takeshita Street
    • 17:30 Disband at Hotel

    What Does a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour with a Licensed Guide Look Like? A Guide's Report It was a day of light rain. First, since the guests wanted to buy Shinkansen tickets, I took them to the JR EAST Travel Service Center at the Marunouchi North Exit of Tokyo Station. After that, we walked and entered the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace through the Otemon Gate, exploring all the way to the Kitahanebashimon Gate. There were many varieties of cherry blossoms in bloom, and the guests were very pleased. I also gave thorough historical explanations. In Asakusa, the weather was unfortunate, with the upper half of the Skytree hidden from view, but the guests enjoyed Kaminarimon and Nakamise. Perhaps due to the weather, Shinjuku Gyoen was relatively uncrowded, and we were able to stroll slowly among the last of the cherry blossoms. We continued on to Meiji Shrine and Takeshita Street, and finally I saw the guests off at the Hotel, bringing the tour to an end.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainTakebashi~Asakusa900JPY
    Section 2TrainAsakusa~Asakusabashi0JPY
    Section 3TrainAsakusabashi~Sendagaya178JPY
    Section 4TrainShinjuku-sanchome~Meiji-jingumae0JPY
    Section 5TrainMeiji-jingumae~Nijubashimae0JPY
    Total1,078JPY

    My name is Eiji Kobayashi (Mr.), and I will be your guide during your stay in Tokyo.
    Please call me Koba.
    Allow me to introduce myself. I am a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter of Japan and an expert in Japanese history and culture, and also in nursing and health. I usually work as a Public Health Nurse (PHN) at a Public Health Center in Tokyo, and I hold a Registered Nurse (RN) license. Additionally, I have a Ph.D. in medical science.
    Born in 1957 and raised in Tokyo, I have worked for 33 years mainly in the research and development area for some pharmaceutical companies. Then, I changed my career to nursing and entered a university to obtain a PHN and RN license. I took the Licensed Guide for preparation for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and volunteered in the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2021.

    Jul 21, 2026
    scottsD8777AR
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Great Touring Tokyo
    Koba is an excellent tour guide. We greatly…

    Jul 9, 2026
    Quest36994121691
    First visit to Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    This was our first visit…

    Jul 8, 2026
    Χρονης Π
    A beautiful tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    It was a perfect experience…

    Jul 5, 2026
    I3699SBjonathanw
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    6hr Tokyo guide great experience
    Koba was so nice to my family…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1) 10:30 Meet @ Hotel Annex Rokku (9-10 Asakusa 2-chome, Taito-ku, Tokyo)
    • 2) 11:10 Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 3) 12:30 Higashi-Shinjuku <Golden Gai → Hanazono Shrine>
    • 4) 13:30 Harajuku <Takeshita Street → Break @ CHRISTIE Harajuku Main Store (1-16-1 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo)>
    • 5) 15:00 Traditional Crafts Aoyama Square (8-1-22 Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo)
    • 6) 15:40 Azabudai Hills
    • 7) 16:15 Disband @ teamLab Borderless (Azabudai Hills Garden Plaza B B1, 5-9 Toranomon, Minato-ku, Tokyo)

    What's a Private Tokyo Day Tour Like for Overseas Guests? A Licensed Guide's Report [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide led a private Tokyo day tour for a group visiting from Oceania. Before the tour, the guests had expressed an interest in purchasing Imari ware. For the teamLab Borderless visit, I asked the guests to make an advance reservation. At the meeting, we reconfirmed the itinerary and began the tour. Some of the guests had previously visited Japan in 2022. On this trip, they toured Osaka and Kyoto before coming to Tokyo. The day after next, they planned to enjoy cherry blossom viewing in Hirosaki City, Aomori Prefecture. In welcome rain, I guided them through the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, Higashi-Shinjuku, and Harajuku. After a break at a cafe in Harajuku, some of the guests bought strawberry candy. When I called ahead to a pottery shop near Yoyogi-Koen Station that we had originally planned to visit, they told me they only carried Imari ware sake vessels. So we visited Aoyama Square instead, where some of the guests purchased Imari ware tea utensils and chiyogami paper as a souvenir. We arrived at Azabudai Hills earlier than planned. After confirming the teamLab Borderless entrance, I guided them to the market, where they bought some fruit. Due to the light rain, the outdoor free space was mostly closed, so I took them to the free space on the second floor of the Mori Tower building for a rest, and we parted ways with smiles 15 minutes before the scheduled end time.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassTokyo Metro Ginza Line Tawaramachi Station~Tokyo Metro Tozai Line Takebashi Station900JPY
    Section 2Free PassTokyo Metro Marunouchi Line Otemachi Station~Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line Shinjuku Station0JPY
    Section 3Free PassTokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line Shinjuku-sanchome Station~Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line Meiji-jingumae Station0JPY
    Section 4Free PassTokyo Metro Chiyoda Line Meiji-jingumae Station~Tokyo Metro Ginza Line Aoyama-itchome Station0JPY
    Section 5Free PassToei Oedo Line Aoyama-itchome Station~Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line Kamiyacho Station0JPY
    Total900JPY

    Hi! I’m a local guide in Tokyo and have been working as a licensed tour guide for almost 10 years. I love helping guests discover the “real Japan” beyond the guidebooks. I enjoy showing guests both famous sights and places that many tourists miss. My tours are based on your interests and can include not only famous sightseeing spots, but also local neighborhoods, culture, history, and everyday life in Japan. I also help guests enjoy Japanese cultural activities and make communication easier. If you’d like vegan or gluten-free meals, let me help you find suitable restaurants in Tokyo. If you have any food allergies or dietary restrictions, please feel free to let me know in advance. I look forward to showing you around Tokyo!

    Sep 6, 2026
    Paullyb
    Highly professional and relaxed tour exceeding our expectations
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Tachi…

    Jun 19, 2026
    Daniel_O
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    10/10 would do again!
    Our guide, Tachi was incredibly accommodating, friendly, and…

    May 24, 2026
    Meander63637687943
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Japanese Garden Lover’s Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tour guide Tachi is the best!
    A most enjoyable and…

    May 19, 2026
    Jai_K
    Viator review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    I would definitely…
    I would definitely recommend this tour. Our guide Tachi…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Hotel Indigo Shibuya meetup 9:30 Zojoji Temple 10:50 Imperial Palace Plaza 11:50 Yasukuni Shrine 13:00~13:40 Lunch (Kinoya Saryo) 14:15 Meiji Shrine 15:00 Harajuku Station (dismissal)

    Title: What's a Private Day Tour of Tokyo Like on a Rainy Day? A Licensed Guide's Report It was an unfortunately rainy day, but we were able to follow almost exactly the course the guests had requested. The guests were visitors from North America who had come to Japan to attend a conference. They had already toured Kyoto and Nara, so they were somewhat accustomed to Japan, but they had hired a guide in order to get around efficiently. They wanted to see Yasukuni Shrine. I explained in advance that the exhibits at the Yushukan museum are considered controversial, but since guiding is not permitted inside the museum, they looked around the exhibits fairly straightforwardly. When we reached the section on special attack weapons, which was the main point of interest, they said there was no more time and that we should move on, so it ended rather abruptly. For lunch, some dietary items could not be eaten, so at a nearby Japanese restaurant they chose a simmered fish set meal and were very satisfied.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShibuya~Aoyama-itchome178JPY
    Section 2SubwayAoyama-itchome~Daimon108JPY
    Section 3SubwayOnarimon~Hibiya178JPY
    Section 4SubwaySakuradamon~Kudanshita178JPY
    Section 5SubwayKudanshita~Meiji-jingumae209JPY
    Total851JPY

    Having taught at a national university with many international students, I have experience in intercultural communications. I hope you can enjoy my talk on Japanese culture and history. I am a novice as a guide, but having traveled around the world, I think I know what foreign travelers expect of a tour guide. One of the most impressive tour guides I have met is a lady in Chennai who told me everything about the Indian culture and history – from Hindu gods to how the British brought ice from North America to Madras and kept it all through the summer for their cold drinks. I hope to become an impressive guide like her.

    Oct 20, 2025
    GlobeTrotting155867
    Hakone tour
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Ichiro was a fantastic guide who was very flexible…

    Mar 19, 2025
    Kpldcols
    Time well spent in Hakone
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our guide (Ichiro) was friendly, knowledgeable,…

  • Kawagoe Half-Day Trip from Tokyo

    Kawagoe Half-Day Trip from Tokyo

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:30 Meet at hotel
    • →12:00 Arrive at Honkawagoe
    • →12:30 Lunch @ Chuo-dori
    • →14:00 Toki no Kane (Bell of Time)
    • →14:30 Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine
    • →15:00 Kashiya Yokocho (Candy Alley)
    • →16:00 Disband at Seibu-Shinjuku Station

    What Is a Private Kawagoe Day Tour Like from Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report It was the final day in Japan for the guests from North America. Unfortunately it rained, but they had been looking forward to the Kawagoe tour. The Seibu Line was not crowded, so we spent the ride talking about many things, including everyday life in Japan. In Kawagoe, the guests were delighted by how lovely the old townscape was. Because of the rain, we used taxis to get around within Kawagoe. We also visited Kashiya Yokocho, where they enjoyed the traditional candy shops and local specialties such as imo kenpi and other sweets, and for lunch we went to have yakisoba, which had become a favorite dish during the stay in Japan.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainSeibu-Shinjuku~Honkawagoe513JPY
    Section 2TrainHonkawagoe~Seibu-Shinjuku513JPY
    Total1,026JPY

    Hello, I’m Yukie Tachibana, national licensed tour guide living in Yokohama with my family. Please call me Yuki. I have been working as a tour guide for 5years mainly around Tokyo, Kanagawa, for example, Hakone, Kamakura, Yokohama and Kawasaki. I have had an experience of attending a lot of foreign visitors from all over the world in both private and group tours for sightseeing and business in one to multi-days. I’m able to arrange the tour for you, so please feel free to ask me your favorite plan in Japan as to spot, food and some activities. I like to see Buddhist statues in temples so I’d like to introduce our history and culture. Also because I like Japanese animation and character, and animals, I can take you to some shops for the animation and animal cafes that are so popular among tourists. Looking forward to seeing you soon and share wonderful time in Japan! Thank you.

    May 1, 2026
    444CraigH
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide from Yokohama
    Tokyo in a day from Yokohama
    We had a great…

    Apr 16, 2026
    Adele P
    Tripadvisor review: Yokohama 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Lovely Yokohama!
    We had a lovely day in Yokohama with Yukie…

    Oct 17, 2025
    LeslieS1560
    Intro to Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Yuki was awesome. She reached out right after we…

    Jun 27, 2025
    L
    L3151LVdavidl
    Amazing Kamakura Tour with Yukie
    Tripadvisor review: Kamakura 4hr Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had an amazing tour with…

  • Hyogo in Half a Day: Himeji Castle & Kokoen Garden

    Hyogo in Half a Day: Himeji Castle & Kokoen Garden

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:30 Meet @ JR Himeji Station
    • 10:45 @ Himeji Castle
    • 13:00 @ Kokoen Garden
    • 14:30 Disband @ JR Himeji Underground Food Court

    Title: What Is a Private Himeji Castle and Koko-en Garden Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America and Europe. There was a message that they would be late on the day, so the tour started about 30 minutes behind schedule. Everything proceeded smoothly. One of the guests, who had visited Japan before, showed great interest in Japan and toured Himeji Castle with much enthusiasm, taking many photos. At Koko-en Garden, this same guest showed a strong interest in the plants and viewed everything carefully. The other guests did not appear to be quite as interested, but I believe they still enjoyed themselves in their own way. Before returning to Osaka, they mentioned wanting to have a meal, so I guided them to an udon restaurant of their choice and helped them place their orders, after which we parted ways.

    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

    Sep 27, 2026
    Ross_W
    Fun with Hidden Gems
    Viator review: Osaka Hidden Gems Off the Beaten Path Tour, Licensed Guide
    Our guide Yama was so…

    Aug 10, 2026
    Sez042
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Great experience
    Yama was great, he showed us around and explained…

    Jul 25, 2026
    Hdixjdixj
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Local Food & Culture Tour in 1 Day, Licensed Guide
    Amazing Food Tour through Osaka
    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…

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima

    Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:40 Meet the customer at Hiroshima Station Shinkansen exit
    • 9:45 Move from Hiroshima Station to Miyajimaguchi (JR)
    • 10:30 Miyajima sightseeing (Itsukushima Shrine, Omotesando Shopping Street)
    • 13:30 Return to Miyajimaguchi and have lunch at "Chinchikurin Miyajimaguchi Store"
    • 14:30 Move from Miyajimaguchi to the Atomic Bomb Dome (JR, taxi)
    • 15:50 Atomic Bomb Dome, Peace Park, Museum
    • 17:10 Move from the Peace Memorial Museum to Hiroshima Station (taxi)
    • 17:25 Disband at Hiroshima Station

    Title: What Is a Private Miyajima and Hiroshima Peace Park Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe. One of the guests actively shared stories about their everyday life and hobbies, so I was able to communicate smoothly with the group right from the start of the tour. They were delighted by the scenery of Miyajima and the beauty of Itsukushima Shrine, and they also said the okonomiyaki we had for lunch was delicious. However, I had understood before the tour that they placed importance on the Peace Park and the museum, but because I saved the Peace Park for the end, the time we had there ended up being shorter than expected. Also, we had planned to transfer from JR to the Hiroden streetcar at Nishi-Hiroshima Station, but there was a difference between the times I had checked in advance and the actual train times, which resulted in keeping the guests waiting at the station unnecessarily. (When I confirmed with the station staff, they said the timetable I had checked in advance should not have been wrong.) As a result, the latter half of the tour became rushed. Since these guests preferred to sightsee at a relaxed pace, I felt I should have proactively suggested options such as taxis or the World Heritage Sea Route.

    Hello! I’m MOMO!
    I’m 29 years old and originally from Hiroshima City!
    In recent years, Hiroshima has become a trending tourist destination, attracting many visitors from both Japan and abroad.
    I have been a guide for just two years, but I have introduced World Heritage sites, famous tourist attractions, and wonderful restaurants in Hiroshima, and have had the opportunity to guide more than 80 tours.
    I like eating, drinking, talking, and learning about other countries’ cultures. 
    If I could guide you, I’d introduce the highlights and my favorite things in my hometown!

    Aug 10, 2025
    E2418VMvalentinac
    Amazing guide
    Tripadvisor review: Miyajima Half-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    I couldn’t have enjoyed Miyajima more then with our…

    Aug 5, 2025
    Karla_W
    Momoko was a wonderful…
    Viator review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Momoko was a wonderful guide. Had…

    Jun 13, 2025
    705melodyk
    Guide was fabulous!
    Tripadvisor review: Miyajima Half-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    She was amazing and very insightful. She made…

    May 26, 2025
    michelk2015
    Excellent half-day in Miyajima. Must see!
    Tripadvisor review: Miyajima Half-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Excellent half-day tour! Highly recommend.…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Asakusa Sensoji Temple

    Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Asakusa Sensoji Temple

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Pick up guests at hotel @ Kimpton Shinjuku Tokyo
    • 8:30 ~ 9:30 Meiji Shrine
    • 9:30 ~ 10:00 Return to hotel to pick up luggage
    • 11:00 ~ 12 :30 Tsukiji Outer Market and lunch
    • 13:00 ~ 14:00 Asakusa Sensoji Temple
    • 14:30 Shinjuku Disband in front of the hotel

    What's a Private Tokyo Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Meiji Shrine, Tsukiji, and Asakusa The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from North America. The main theme was a visit to Tsukiji Market, but since the early morning is crowded with trade buyers, I first guided them to Meiji Shrine. They seemed to greatly enjoy the serene atmosphere of Meiji Shrine and took their time to worship. They listened attentively to my explanation of Shinto, and enjoyed drawing omikuji fortunes and purchasing omamori charms. Afterward, since walking a long way on the gravel paths had tired their feet, at their request we returned to the Hotel once so they could change clothes. At Tsukiji Market, they explored the Tsukiji Uogashi and the shopping street with great interest and bought various souvenirs. They savored sea urchin nigiri at a sushi restaurant, then moved on to Asakusa, where they visited Senso-ji Temple before returning to the Hotel. They thoroughly enjoyed their first trip to Japan.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinjuku~Harajuku146JPY
    Section 2TrainTochomae~Tsukiji Market272JPY
    Section 3TrainTsukiji Market~Asakusa220JPY
    Section 4TrainAsakusa~Shinjuku356JPY
    Total994JPY

    My name is Mari Ise. I started this job as a guide Interpreter in 2020. I don’t have much experience, but I have been enjoying traveling with visitors from abroad very much since then. Besides this job, I am working as a teacher of English at high schools and am teaching Japanese language to people from foreign countries. I am very interested in traditional cultures, history, nature, art and music of both Japan and foreign countries. So, I would like to introduce and share much information with guests who will visit Japan. It would be my great pleasure if you visitors could enjoy and love travel in Japan.

  • Gifu in One Day: Ichikokutochi Tateba Teahouse & Tsumago-juku

    Gifu in One Day: Ichikokutochi Tateba Teahouse & Tsumago-juku

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:30 Meet up @ Nakatsugawa Station
    • 09:10 Board the bus (Nakatsugawa Station → Magome)
    • 09:30 Arrive at Magome & start trekking
    • 10:30 Lunch @ juri
    • 11:45 Ichikokutochi Tateba Teahouse
    • 13:30 Arrive at Tsumago-juku
    • 15:30 Board the bus (Tsumago-juku → Nagiso Station)
    • 16:00 Disband @ Nagiso Station

    What Is a Rainy-Day Private Walk on the Nakasendo Trail Between Magome and Tsumago Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. They love traveling and have visited many places around the world. They have acquaintances in Japan, and this was their first visit to the country. They knew Magome as part of the "Samurai Road," and since one of the guests is fond of Japanese history, they chose to visit. Although it rained today and the ground conditions were not very good, the conversation flowed well and it turned into an enjoyable trek. After arriving at Tsumago-juku, since we got there early, the guests were delighted to be able to take their time and fully enjoy Tsumago-juku.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainNakatsugawa~Magome800JPY
    Section 2BusTsumago-juku~Nagiso300JPY
    Section 3TrainNagiso~Nakatsugawa330JPY
    Total1,430JPY

    Welcome to Japan! My name is Ryota Tsuchiya, and I am honored to be your guide during your journey in Japan.

    With a deep passion for Japanese culture, history, and craftsmanship, I specialize in creating immersive travel experiences that go beyond sightseeing. My tours are designed to introduce you to the true essence of Japan—through hands-on experiences, engaging storytelling, and personal connections with local artisans and experts.

    I have lived and studied abroad, gaining a deep appreciation for cross-cultural exchange. This background allows me to bridge the gap between Japan and international visitors, making history and traditions more accessible and enjoyable for you.

    Based in Nagoya, I offer exclusive tours across central Japan, including Aichi, Gifu, Mie, and Shiga. Whether you are interested in exploring historic castles, learning traditional calligraphy, visiting artisan workshops, or experiencing local festivals, I guide each tour to match your interests and curiosity.

    My goal is to ensure that your journey is not only memorable but also meaningful. I want you to leave Japan with a deeper understanding of its culture and a collection of unforgettable experiences.

    Let’s embark on an extraordinary journey together. I look forward to sharing the wonders of Japan with you!

    Jul 14, 2025
    wuschaefer
    A wonderful hike with stunning views
    Tripadvisor review: Magome & Tsumago Nakasendo Trail Day Hike with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a…

    Jul 11, 2025
    cindydZ5063DM
    Amazing
    Tripadvisor review: Nagoya Full-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
    Yoshi was very knowledgeable, gracious and friendly. My day…

    Jul 8, 2025
    Amanda_P
    Nagoya
    Viator review: Nagoya Full-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
    The tour was amazing!!! Yoshi contacted us right away…

    Jul 4, 2025
    844roryb
    Nakasendo day hike
    Tripadvisor review: Magome & Tsumago Nakasendo Full-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    Amazing walk along an ancient route…

  • Sendai & Matsushima Customized Tour in 1 Day

    Sendai & Matsushima Customized Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at Sotetsu Fresa Inn Sendai~9:25 Board the Senseki-Tohoku Line from Sendai Station~9:52@Matsushimakaigan Station~10:10@Godaido~11:00@Matsushima Sightseeing Boat~12:00@Grill Taikantei Iroha (4F)~13:10@Fukuura Bridge & Fukuurajima Island~14:32 Board from Matsushimakaigan Station~14:50@Dismiss inside the train (recommended by guest)

    Title: What's a Private Matsushima Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America, and some of them had spent time in Japan before and were quite familiar with the country. Coming from a place without a coastline, they had been looking forward to the Matsushima sightseeing cruise. When we met it was raining, and they remarked that it rarely rains where they come from. By the time we reached Matsushima the rain had almost stopped, so we could take our time viewing Godaido Hall before boarding the 11:00 sightseeing boat. While the guests took a break and used the restroom, I lined up at the very front of the pier to secure a spot. I showed them photos of the three islands that are considered must-sees and explained that they would be visible on the port side, so we all gathered there. Regarding lunch, I had heard that some of the guests did not care for fish, so I took them to my usual restaurant, Taikantei, and let them look at the menu before entering. Some of the guests wanted to eat fish, while the tour leader had no preference. Taikantei is convenient when tastes are divided. Everyone enjoyed their meal. The restaurant has also updated its English support, with English descriptions on the menu, and the Western-style menu on the 2nd floor can now be ordered again at the Japanese restaurant on the 4th floor. That was very helpful. In the end, only the tour leader had fish (conger eel). The tour leader had mentioned a fondness for cherry blossoms, but the cherry blossom season in Matsushima had already ended, though the late-blooming double cherry blossoms had begun to open and a few mountain cherry blossoms remained. These could be seen on Fukuura Island. Camellia flowers were also still in bloom, so some of the guests took photos while others quickly explored to the tip of the cape and rejoined at the entrance to the bridge. Along the way they seemed to enjoy some of Matsushima's casual local foods, such as oyster curry bread, which was nice. They mentioned they would be staying two nights in Aomori next, and since I had guided an Aomori cruise the week before, they asked me about the highlights. I told them that if they like cherry blossoms, Hirosaki Park was in full bloom right now and would be lovely. I also mentioned that the apple pie there is delicious and worth trying. Tonight they seemed to be planning to eat grilled beef tongue and other local specialties.

    Hello! I’m Riko, your local guide. During the week, I work at a local university, but on weekends, I love to guide visitors like you. This year(2024) marks my 6th year as a guide, and I’m thrilled to continue sharing the beauty of Japan with you.
    I’m a certified Sake Navigator, so I have a wealth of knowledge about Japanese sake. Additionally, I’m well-versed in the gourmet scene of Sendai, Shiogama, and Matsushima, allowing me to tailor your tour to your culinary preferences!
    I look forward to creating a memorable tour experience for you, full of fun and lasting memories of Japan. Thanks for choosing me as your guide!

    May 10, 2026
    Nate_K
    Viator review: Sendai / Matsushima Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Fun Day in the bay!
    Be ready to walk briskly…

    Apr 30, 2026
    Tanakainmaui
    Tripadvisor review: Sendai / Matsushima Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Riko-san is the best guide!
    I originally booked with TripAdvisor,…

    Mar 31, 2026
    NHDBuilder
    Tripadvisor review: Sendai / Matsushima Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    GO WITH “RIKO” FROM JAPAN GUIDE AGENCY
    This is our…

    Oct 3, 2025
    P
    Peggy_M
    This was a great tour with Riko
    Viator review: Sendai / Matsushima Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Riko was…