Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo in One Day: Azabu-Juban & Hachiko Crossing

    Tokyo in One Day: Azabu-Juban & Hachiko Crossing

    Tour Itinerary

    • 7:45 Show up at the Grand Hyatt. Inform the front desk of the visit.
    • 8:10 Meet the guest. Listen to their requests.
    • 8:10-9:00 Depart on foot. Mori Garden. Azabu-Juban Shopping Street.
    • 9:00-9:30 Azabu-Juban → In front of Tsukiji Market.
    • 9:30-9:30 Stroll through Tsukiji Outer Market. Namiyoke Shrine. Take a taxi to Otemon Gate of the Imperial Palace. East Gardens (Otemon Gate ~ Hirakawamon Gate)
    • Take a taxi to Kaminarimon Gate in Asakusa.
    • Nakamise Street ~ Senso-ji Temple grounds, explanation at Azuma Bridge.
    • 13:45-14:10 Asakusa → Shibuya on the Ginza Line.
    • 14:10-14:30 Hachiko Crossing.

    Title: What Is a Private Walking Tour of Azabu-Juban, Tsukiji, and the Imperial Palace Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from North America. We began with a leisurely stroll through the Azabu-Juban shopping street near their hotel. It was a public holiday morning, so there were few people about, but the guests showed interest in the dashi (soup stock) vending machine installed in a parking lot, the street sculptures, and the variety of restaurants. While explaining how these things are used, we took the subway to Tsukiji Market. Despite being a market holiday, Tsukiji Market was extremely crowded. In contrast, Namiyoke Shrine was almost deserted. Since the guests wished to see cherry blossoms, we headed to the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace. It was still early for the cherry blossoms, but the number of flowers in bloom, including various fruit trees, had begun to increase.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayAzabu-Juban~Tsukiji Market180JPY
    Section 2SubwayAsakusa~Shibuya260JPY
    Total440JPY

    Hello, Bonjour, Buongiorno!

    I’m Kei, Keisuke YAMAMOTO, japanese freelance Government-licensed guide and interpreter in French and in English, speaking Italian as well. Having accompanied guests to all over Japan by now with whole 47 prefectures, all year round. 11 years and over 1500 days of experience as a professional guide since 2015, after 24 years of work at French Tourist Board in Tokyo in charge of promotion and marketing.
    * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
    Je suis Kei, Keisuke YAMAMOTO, guide-interprète indépendant japonais, agréé par le gouvernement en langues française et anglaise, parlant également italien. Ayant accompagné des clients dans tout le Japon avec se 47 départements, toute l’année. 11 ans et plus de 1500 jours d’expérience en tant que guide professionel depuis 2015, après 24 ans de travail à l’Office de Tourisme Français à Tokyo en charge de la promotion et du marketing.
    * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
    Sono Kei, Keisuke YAMAMOTO, un guida-interprete indipendente giappone e approvato dal governo per le lingue francese e inglese, parlo italiano anche. Avo accompagno i clienti in tutto il Giappone, con sue 47 province, tutto l’anno. 10 anni e piu di 1500 journi di esperienza come guida professionista dal 2015, dopo 24 anni di lavoro presso l’Ufficio del Turismo francese a Tokyo come responsabile della promozione e del marketing.
    * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
    Having lived mostly in Kawasaki city attached to Tokyo in the West, I have a good knowledge and profound experience of Tokyo and its surrounding areas such as Mount Fuji, Hakone and Kamakura or Nikko.
    A history lover and food lover, qualified as JSA Wine Expert, I’d like to help you choosing good restaurants and good drinks including Sake.
    Let’s go together for a delightful discovery in Japan.
    * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
    Ayant vécu principalement dans la ville de Kawasaki rattachée à Tokyo à l’Ouest, j’ai une bonne connaissance et une profonde expérience de Tokyo et de ses environs comme le Mont Fuji, Hakone et Kamakura ou Nikko.
    Passionné d’histoire et de gastronomie, diplômé JSA Wine Expert, j’aimerais vous aider à choisir de bons restaurants et de bonnes boissons dont le Saké.
    Partons ensemble pour une délicieuse découverte du Japon.
    * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
    Avendo vissuto principalmente nella città di Kawasaki, vicina a Tokyo, ho una buona conoscenza e una profonda esperienza di Tokyo e dei suoi dintorni, come il Monte Fuji, Hakone e Kamakura o Nikko.
    Appassionato di storia e gastronomia, laureato Wine Expert presso la JSA, vorrei aiutarvi a scegliere buoni ristoranti e buoni bevande, tra cui il sakè.
    Partiamo insieme per una deliziosa scoperta del Giappone.

    Jun 5, 2025
    Jenan_A
    Lovely experience but expensive
    Viator review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide
    What a lovely…

  • Tokyo: Tamagawa Daishi & Jidayubori Park Folk House Garden

    Tokyo: Tamagawa Daishi & Jidayubori Park Folk House Garden

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet @andaz
    • 9:40 Tamagawa Daishi
    • 11:00 Jidayubori Park Folk House Garden
    • 12:30 Lunch @Inaseya
    • 14:00 Gotokuji Temple, Setagaya Hachimangu Shrine
    • 15:00 Disband @Gotokuji Station

    Title: What Is an Off-the-Beaten-Path Private Tour of Setagaya, Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. Due to their schedule, the guide day was changed, and the tour took place on a public holiday. Since they had no particular destination in mind, I proposed three courses and let them choose from among them. The guests selected the Setagaya course. Apart from Gotokuji Temple, these places are not on the standard destination list, and they are among my recommended spots. We visited Tamagawa Daishi, the Old Farmhouse Garden at Jidayubori Park, and Gotokuji Temple. Tamagawa Daishi is famous for its underground sanctuary, where you walk in complete darkness feeling your way along. Since one of the guests was quite tall, I was worried they might hit their head, but they said it was fine. As this place is not on the list, I negotiated the underground sanctuary admission fee with the guests in advance, and they kindly covered the guide's portion as well. At Jidayubori Park, an old farmhouse from the late Edo period has been relocated, and nearby there is a bamboo grove that hardly anyone visits. The guests had already seen the bamboo grove in Arashiyama in Kyoto, but they were very fond of this quiet, deserted spot. Gotokuji Temple has recently seen an increase in inbound visitors and no longer feels quite so off-the-beaten-path, but on the day of the tour it was as quiet as a weekday, if not more so. Even though it was a public holiday, everywhere was as uncrowded as a weekday, and I was glad I guided them on this course. It was my first off-the-beaten-path tour, and I was happy to be able to introduce recommended spots in Tokyo that are still not widely known. The guests were experienced travelers who could use Google Maps to reach the places they wanted to visit, and they mentioned they would go to Fukagawa Fudodo on their own. On the way to Setagaya, we passed through Shibuya, and when I talked about the Shibuya Scramble Crossing and Hachiko, one of the guests, who was a fan of the Hachiko movie, said they really wanted to go there, so after we parted ways they headed to Shibuya on their own. I would love to guide this tour again, as it allows me to share the hidden charms of Tokyo.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayToranomon~Shibuya180JPY
    Section 2TrainShibuya~Futako-Tamagawa230JPY
    Section 3BusNakakouchi~Jidayubori Park230JPY
    Section 4BusJidayubori Park~Seijogakuen-mae230JPY
    Section 5TrainSeijogakuen-mae~Gotokuji170JPY
    Total1,040JPY

    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.

    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 Half a Day: Ameyoko & Tokyo Station

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Ameyoko & Tokyo Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at the hotel
    • 10:30-11:30 Ameyoko
    • 12:00-13:30 Imperial Palace, Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 14:00 Tokyo Station

    What Can You See on a Private Walking Tour of Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report Following the guests' initial request, we first enjoyed strolling through the Ameyoko shopping street, and along the way we also stopped at a temple. The guests showed great interest in Buddhism and enjoyed offering prayers and drawing omikuji fortunes. At the Imperial Palace, they enjoyed walking around and taking photographs. They were very interested in the differences between the role of monarchy in their home country in Europe and the Emperor of Japan. As they wished to visit the East Gardens as well, we entered there too. They enjoyed strolling around the castle ruins and Japanese garden and taking photographs. For lunch, I took them to Tokyo Station and introduced the restaurant area, where the tour concluded.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayMetro 1-Day Pass~Metro 1-Day Pass700JPY
    Total700JPY

    Hello, I am Yumiko Hoshida. I was born in Osaka and live in Tokyo now. I have been to UK (ESL) and The USA (Executive Secretary course) as a student.
    After I came back to Japan, I worked at Osaka EXPO as an interpreter. And then I worked at foreign companies at Osaka and Tokyo. After resignation, I have got the national guiding license. I have been enjoying guiding sightseeing spots and showing Japanese history & culture etc. to the guests from overseas. It is really wonderful for me to spend time with foreign guests in Japan.
    I am very looking forward to welcoming foreign guests.
    I do hope to see YOU soon!

    May 13, 2025
    Glenda_P
    4 Hour Walking Tour Tokyo
    Viator review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Yumiko was an excellent guide. Yumiko met…

  • Osaka in Half a Day: Osaka Castle and stay there & Tennoji Station

    Osaka in Half a Day: Osaka Castle and stay there & Tennoji Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:25 Meet at Osaka Station
    • 10:25-12:30 Move to Osaka Castle and stay there.
    • 12:50-13:55 Stay at Shitennoji Temple
    • 14:10 Tennoji Station  
    • Around 14:10 End of the tour

    Title: What's a Private Osaka Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Osaka Castle and Shitennoji Body: As I was about to arrive at Tennoji, I received an email from the guests asking if we could possibly start the tour a little earlier. Since I always make it a habit to arrive at the meeting point 30 minutes in advance, I replied that we could begin around 10:30. When the guests asked where we might meet, saying it did not have to be at the Hotel, I suggested Osaka Station, from which it is easy to get to Osaka Castle. Since the guests had assumed they needed to take the Shinkansen to reach Kyoto, this was also good practice for taking the Special Rapid Service train. Although they were disappointed not to see the cherry blossoms, they happily took many photos of the plum grove and photographed Osaka Castle from various angles. The guests were interested in Japanese history and culture, and listened attentively to my explanation of Osaka Castle. The spot where you can see Osaka Castle from the Japanese garden is a popular photo location, and when we went there to take pictures, there was already another group of visitors from overseas. As we waited just behind them, one of them took out a small box with a ring, proposed, and they shared a passionate kiss with Osaka Castle in the background. We all congratulated them, saying "Congratulations!" The guests were so moved that they said they nearly cried. Shitennoji Temple was also open free of charge for the equinox period, making it a fortunate day. To return to Shin-Osaka Station, I explained which platform to use so they could go out to Tennoji and transfer to the Midosuji Line without changing trains, and then we parted ways. The guests had come from Tokyo to Osaka the previous day and seemed to be planning to move on to Kyoto to stay that evening, so it looked like a busy schedule.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainOsaka~Osakajokoen170JPY
    Section 2SubwayTanimachi 4-chome~Shitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka190JPY
    Section 3SubwayShitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka~Tennoji190JPY
    Total550JPY

    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.

    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…

  • Osaka: Osaka Castle & Shitennoji Temple

    Osaka: Osaka Castle & Shitennoji Temple

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:40 Hotel Osaka
    • 11:00 Sightseeing at Osaka Castle
    • 13:10 Depart Osaka Castle
    • 13:30 Lunch at Shinsekai
    • 14:50 Depart Shinsekai
    • 15:00 Shitennoji Temple
    • 16:00 Depart Shitennoji Temple
    • 16:30 Explain the way back at Dotonbori and finish

    Title: What Is a Private Osaka Day Tour Like, Including Osaka Castle? A Licensed Guide's Report The night before the tour, the guests contacted me to say that their accommodation and the pickup location registered in the system were actually different, and they asked whether it could be changed. This caused some inconvenience to everyone involved, but in the end the change was made properly, which was a great help. I am truly grateful. The guests had just arrived in Osaka from Hakone, where it had reportedly been snowing, so they were able to take off their jackets and enjoy the warmer weather in Osaka. They were very impressed with Osaka Castle, saying it was wonderful. They were very cheerful, and it was a pleasure to spend the time together with them.

    Hi! Thank you for choosing us. I am very glad to be assigned as your guide, and to help you have a good time in Japan. While you are in Japan, I would like you to try some sweets (if you are allowed by the doctor, of course). There are so many kinds, but among them, I would like to recommend Ice cream, even in autumn or winter (enjoyable in a warm room). Have you ever tried a kind of ice cream, which is called Soft Cream in Japan? It’s much softer and creamier than usual ice cream, and sold in many varieties of flavor. Matcha flavour ones are easily found, or chocolate ones, but also they sell local flavors to boost the sales of their local products. To name some, delicious fruit flavours such as yuzu (citrus) or grapes, or strange ones with wasabi (a bit spicy and fragrant) or miso (usually used for salty soups, but tastes like caramel when it is sweetened). Shaved ice is good, too. I have an ice shaving machine in my house, but I wouldn’t bring it to a tour. I look forward to seeing you and helping you enjoy your day in Japan!

    Oct 17, 2025
    maggiesL3053CQ
    A day in Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kaori Matsumura was very knowledgeable and easy to…

    Oct 5, 2025
    Brian_B
    Kyoto with Kaori
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Kaori was incredible. We had…

    Aug 28, 2025
    jmnTravel
    Learning About Ise Shrines
    Tripadvisor review: Ise Jingu(Ise Grand Shrine) Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Very good tour to the…

    Jun 9, 2025
    Mobile08859304969
    Superstar Guide
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kaori was an absolute superstar guide. She corresponded with us…

  • Osaka in One Day: Sumiyoshi Taisha & Umeda Sky Building

    Osaka in One Day: Sumiyoshi Taisha & Umeda Sky Building

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:15 Meet @ Conrad Osaka
    • 11:00 @ Sumiyoshi Taisha
    • 12:30 @ Kuromon Market
    • 13:15 @ Dotonbori
    • 14:15 @ Shinsaibashi (including Pokemon Center)
    • 15:00 @ Umeda Sky Building
    • 16:00 Dismiss @ Osaka Metro Umeda Station

    What's a Private One-Day Osaka Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Sumiyoshi Taisha, Kuromon Market, Dotonbori, and Umeda Sky Building The guests were visitors from North America. Since they were still having breakfast, we started a little late, but everything went smoothly afterward. Today was very cold, but as it was the Vernal Equinox Day holiday, each spot was crowded with many visitors. At Sumiyoshi Taisha, the guests experienced praying, picked up the small pebbles from the popular power spot "Go-Dai-Riki," and purchased the small amulet pouches. At the also-popular "petting rabbit," the guests eagerly stroked its arms and legs. At Kuromon Market, they enjoyed many tastings and samples and purchased souvenirs. They especially seemed to like the strawberries. In Dotonbori, they dined at a restaurant recommended by the guide that serves authentic "Kobe Beef," and they seemed very satisfied. At the Umeda Sky Building, due to a larger crowd than the guide had ever experienced before, it took more than 30 minutes just to wait for the elevator and purchase tickets. They enjoyed the wonderful view from the observation floor. Afterward, since they were returning to their hotel, I guided them to the subway station and explained the route, and we parted ways on time.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayHigobashi~Namba190JPY
    Section 2TrainNamba~Sumiyoshi Taisha240JPY
    Section 3TrainSumiyoshi Taisha~Namba240JPY
    Section 4SubwayShinsaibashi~Umeda240JPY
    Total910JPY

    Dear my guests,

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Jul 20, 2026
    Eric_W
    Viator review: Himeji Castle & Koko-en in 1 Day Tour with Licensed Guide
    Castle journey worth your time!
    Our tour with…

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

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

  • Kyoto in One Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha & Kiyomizu-dera Temple

    Kyoto in One Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha & Kiyomizu-dera Temple

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet in front of the Temizuya (purification fountain) at Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 10:00 Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 10:40 Nijo Castle
    • 12:20 Lunch at Kinkakuji Katsura
    • 13:20 Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion)
    • 14:45 Yasaka Pagoda ~ Yasaka Koshindo ~ Sannenzaka
    • 15:10 Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • 15:40 Yasui Konpiragu ~ Kenninji Temple
    • 16:00 Hotel The Celestine Kyoto Gion

    What's a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Fushimi Inari, Kinkaku-ji, and Kiyomizu-dera Today's guests were a group visiting from North America. One of them had visited Kyoto last year, while it was the first visit for another. They had climbed all the way to the top of Fushimi Inari Taisha before the tour, so we started at 10:00. Today, with the exception of Kiyomizu-dera, the sites were not very crowded, which was wonderful. Kinkaku-ji in particular was very beautiful and uncrowded, so they took many photos there. They were delighted with the tonkatsu at a restaurant near Kinkaku-ji. They were surprised by how many people there were at Kiyomizu-dera, so they decided not to go in and instead visited other places such as Yasui Konpira-gu. I believe they enjoyed the day.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainFushimi Inari Taisha~Sanjo220JPY
    Section 2SubwayKeihan Sanjo~Nijojo-mae220JPY
    Total440JPY

    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.

    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…

  • Tokyo: Hamarikyu & Koishikawa Korakuen

    Tokyo: Hamarikyu & Koishikawa Korakuen

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet @ Hotel
    • 9:30 Hamarikyu
    • 10:30 Koishikawa Korakuen
    • 12:30 Shinjuku Gyoen Lunch @ Tsuburano
    • 15:30 Disband @ Hotel

    Title: What Is a Private Tokyo Garden Lovers Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's tour was originally scheduled for the 16th but was postponed to the 20th due to bad weather. The guests were a group who had also joined the "Off the Beaten Path" tour on the 17th. Before setting out, I explained the Tokugawa shogunate, the three main branch families, the system of alternate attendance (sankin-kotai), and the residences of the feudal lords, so that the guests could understand why there are so many gardens and parks in Tokyo. At Hamarikyu, we ran into a guest who had experienced the cold and snow the previous day, and it was interesting to listen to the guests conversing in British and American English. Unlike the day before, today turned out to be perfect weather for a Garden Lovers Tour, which was wonderful. One of the guests worked in finance and was very familiar with Japan's "lost three decades," so we discussed the factors behind it. However, at the imperial garden today there were many children who had been brought along by young parents, and one of the guests joked, "The declining birthrate and aging population must be a lie."

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainJR Shimbashi~JR Suidobashi167JPY
    Section 2TrainJR Suidobashi~JR Sendagaya167JPY
    Section 3SubwayMarunouchi Line Shinjuku Gyoenmae~Marunouchi Line Otemachi209JPY
    Total543JPY

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

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

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

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

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

  • Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • PM13:00 Double tree Hilton Higashiyama Meet
    •     up
    • PM13:40 Kiyomizu-dera
    • PM15:30 Nishiki Market
    • PM17:00 Doubletree Hilton Higashiyama Dismissal

    Title: What Is a Private Family Day Tour of Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group from North America, visiting Japan as a birthday celebration trip. As it was the eighth day of their ten-day journey, both seemed a little tired. In Tokyo and Osaka, the group appeared to enjoy entertainment-focused activities. At Kiyomizu-dera Temple, interest seemed limited apart from the general experience, but the group showed strong curiosity about food, stopping at four food shops and souvenir shops along the approach to Kiyomizu-dera Temple and another four at Nishiki Market. With the guests' agreement, we skipped Nijo Castle. I saw them off at their hotel and we parted ways exactly at 17:00. Although the tour turned out different from the original plan, both were very satisfied with the food. I would like to believe it made for a good birthday celebration.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKeihan Gojo~Kiyomizu-michi230JPY
    Section 2BusKiyomizu-michi~Shijo Kawaramachi230JPY
    Section 3BusShijo Karasuma~Keihan Shijo230JPY
    Section 4TrainGion-Shijo~Kiyomizu-Gojo170JPY
    Total860JPY

    I am Naoki Nakatani. I live in Osaka.
    I started tour guide from 2023 after 40 years
    work experience in Japanese manufacturing company. I am currently teaching Japanese as volunteer staff to foreign residents who live in my community. I have 11 and half years work experience in overseas office and I had interacted with people of foreign countries for a long time enjoying business and friendship with them. My guide experience is still short but I will provide my best service to the guests. I am in a position to prepare the itinerary if guests request and to send any information for the guest to make plan before visit to Japan.

    Jul 11, 2026
    Trevor_F
    Viator review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    4 hour Private Tour
    Naomi was our guide and did a…

    Jun 6, 2026
    May_O
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Wonderful time in Kyoto
    We had a terrific time with Naoki. He…

    May 1, 2026
    Sanfrancisco820
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Choose Naoki – you will have a great day!!
    Naoki is an…

    Mar 28, 2026
    Tanya_R
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great guide
    Naoki was very kind and knowledgeable He knew the best…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Imperial Palace & Asakusa

    Tokyo in One Day: Imperial Palace & Asakusa

    Tour Itinerary

    • 【The Fuji Five Lakes tour was cancelled due to the suspension of the JR Chuo Main Line, so it has been changed to a 5-hour tour within Tokyo】
    • 9:00  Depart from the hotel (New Otani, The Main) → 9:15 Depart from Yotsuya Station
    • 9:30  Imperial Palace
    • 10:30  Asakusa (Kaminarimon → Nakamise → Sensoji Temple)
    • 12:00  Lunch
    • 14:00 Tour ends at the Tokyo Metropolitan Teien Art Museum

    Can You Change a Fuji Five Lakes Tour to a Tokyo Day Tour When Trains Are Cancelled? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. The tour was originally planned as a Fuji Five Lakes tour, but the day before, due to heavy snow forecast in the Lake Kawaguchiko area, the JR Chuo Main Line announced a full-day planned suspension, making the tour impossible to carry out. After contacting the guests the day before, I visited the Hotel early in the morning on the day, and after discussion, we changed the plan to a 5-hour tour within Tokyo. (This was carried out with the support and advance guidance of the [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) office.) Although the tour they had looked forward to and planned through many discussions had to be cancelled, the guests remained calm and were able to actively discuss an alternative tour. Since the group had an appointment with their companions at the Tokyo Metropolitan Teien Art Museum at 14:00, we decided to visit the Imperial Palace and Asakusa, which had not been covered in their Tokyo sightseeing the previous day. It snowed from the morning, with especially large snowflakes at the Imperial Palace, but the guests were delighted, calling it a "unique experience." It also rained in Asakusa, but the guests happily bought souvenirs such as tenugui hand towels and beautifully wrapped cosmetics at Nakamise. They enjoyed sukiyaki for lunch, and I took them to the Tokyo Metropolitan Teien Art Museum right at 14:00, concluding the tour.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayYotsuya~Ginza178JPY
    Section 2SubwayHibiya~Asakusa209JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa~Shirokanedai252JPY
    Total639JPY

    About HIDE

    Hello, my name is Hideki (HIDE), a licensed tour guide based in Tokyo.
    I spent more than 40 years working in the airline industry, including 12 years living and working overseas.
    During that time, I had extensive opportunities to interact with people from Europe, the United States, and Asia. These experiences strengthened my appreciation for cultural exchange and shaped the warm, attentive hospitality I now bring to my tours.

    My goal is to help visitors enjoy Japan in a relaxed and meaningful way—through not only sightseeing, but also friendly communication, small discoveries, and genuine local experiences. I want guests to leave Japan with a deeper understanding of the culture and a lasting fondness for the country.

    I mainly guide private tours (FIT) in Tokyo, introducing both iconic highlights and hidden local spots that are often missed by first-time visitors. Tours to Kamakura, Hakone, and Nikko can also be arranged upon request.

    Guests often tell me that touring with me feels like traveling with a knowledgeable local friend—something I consider the greatest compliment. I look forward to welcoming you and sharing an enjoyable, comfortable, and memorable time together.

    Languages: English, Indonesian
    Max group size: Up to 4 people
    Contact:
    📱 +81-80-5118-2800 (WhatsApp available)
    📧 morikin57@yahoo.co.jp

    Apr 6, 2026
    Mercedes_G
    Viator review: Private Tokyo Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Great guide in Tokyo
    Wonderful tour with friendly…

    May 30, 2025
    Paradise22352245597
    Great! Hide was the best!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    I did this with my brother on…

    May 15, 2025
    TrishaK454
    Personalized tour with a very lovely guide
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Hide was a delightful guide.…

    Apr 29, 2025
    Imelda_B
    Grateful
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Hide was amazing tour guide. He organised our itinerary very well.…