Category: Uncategorized

  • Tochigi in One Day: Shinkyo Bridge & Rinnoji Temple

    Tochigi in One Day: Shinkyo Bridge & Rinnoji Temple

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:20 Meet at JR Nikko Station, purchase return tickets
    • 10:30 Board taxi
    • 10:35 Shinkyo Bridge
    • 11:15 Kegon Falls
    • 12:00 Yudaki Falls
    • 12:15 Lake Yunoko
    • 12:40 Ryuzu Falls, lunch
    • 13:40 Get off taxi, Toshogu Shrine
    • 15:15 Rinnoji Temple
    • 16:05 Board bus at Shinkyo Bridge
    • 16:10 Tour ends at JR Nikko Station
    • 16:19 See off at train

    Title: Can You Do a Private Day Trip from Tokyo to Nikko by Shinkansen? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. Although I had supported them by email beforehand on how to travel to Nikko, and their Shinkansen reservation had been arranged, on the morning of the tour I received an email saying, "Which line do we take and where do we go? We're lost!" I immediately supported them step by step, one thing at a time: about Tokyo Station, about the Shinkansen, that they should get off at Utsunomiya, how to get from the Shinkansen to the Nikko Line platform, about the tickets, which station to get off at, and so on. When we finally arrived in Nikko and found each other, it was quite a moving moment. Thanks to that, we quickly became friendly, and it remained enjoyable throughout. Since they had told me in advance that they did not want to walk very much, I decided to have them enjoy nature by taxi for the first three hours. They said there are no mountains where they live, so they were delighted by the views of the waterfalls, lake, and mountains of Nikko. For lunch we had something light while looking at Ryuzu Falls. For dessert they tried anko (sweet bean paste) dango. They looked curious about the unfamiliar texture at first, but said it was delicious and ate a lot. At Rinnoji Temple, one of the guests said something that made me happiest of all: "I've heard explanations about Buddhist statues in many places before, but they were all superficial. After hearing your explanation, though, I came to understand the whole picture of Buddhism and its deep meaning, and that was wonderful." I have spent many years through trial and error thinking about how to help foreign visitors, who are not familiar with Shinto or Buddhism, feel a sense of connection and understanding, so these words were a great encouragement to me.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusShinkyo Bridge~JR Nikko Station220JPY
    Total220JPY

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

    Aug 24, 2026
    arzed
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    A perfect day!
    My family and I had an…

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

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

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

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour by Car

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour by Car

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 9:00 Meet @ Hotel
    • 2. 9:20 @ Asakusa
    • 3. 10:20 @ Akihabara
    • 4. 12:00 @ Shibuya Crossing, PARCO
    • 5. 13:30 @ Takeshita Street
    • 6. 14:00 @ Meiji Shrine
    • 7. 14:40 @ Origami Workshop
    • 8. 15:00 Dismissal @ Hotel

    What's a Private Family-Friendly Day Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time, having just arrived and planning to travel around the country for the following two weeks. They were very punctual throughout the day. At Senso-ji Temple, the whole group drew omikuji fortunes, purified themselves at the water pavilion, and prayed at the main hall. In Akihabara, they enjoyed drinking ramune soda and browsing anime goods at Animate. The Radio Kaikan building was open, but the shops inside did not open until 11:00, so I reflected on the need to check the opening times of individual stores as well. After going to Shibuya and experiencing the Shibuya Crossing, we made an unplanned stop because the guests enjoyed anime, visiting the Pokémon Center at Parco, the Jump Shop, and Nintendo Tokyo. Although it was crowded, they were very happy purchasing goods. Since they had eaten a large breakfast, we skipped lunch and headed to Takeshita Street, where they enjoyed strawberry candy and played some games before going to Meiji Shrine. They were delighted, saying how beautiful it was. We arrived at the Hotel a little early, and since the guests wanted to learn origami, I taught them origami before we parted ways. The driver was also wonderfully attentive and very helpful. I believe the guests enjoyed themselves.

    Hello, I am Fumiko, an English-speaking Tourist Guide. I have been guiding foreign visitors science 2016. Please let me know your bucket lists whiles you are staying in Japan and what you are interested in. I will make the best plan for you. This is an once in a lifetime experience for you. As for myself, I love traveling, meeting people, eating local food, drinking, history, and art. I am learning Ikebana, traditional Japanese-style flower arrangement, and tea ceremony. I also love sports, especially tennis. I like children, so I can teach them some origami, folding paper. I am looking forward to hearing from you and seeing you in Japan.

    Sep 29, 2026
    W9834MZdavidn
    First Visit to Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    We had an absolutely wonderful day…

    Sep 12, 2026
    Don_G
    Tokyo 6 hour Tour
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    We had a great time on…

    Jul 27, 2026
    zyarisa
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Fumiko tour good vibes only
    Mrs. fumiko was very…

    Jul 23, 2026
    734mortenp
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Nice tour of Tokyo
    Don’t visit Tokyo without a guide! You’ll…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00 Hotel Grand Bach → <Tokyo Metro: Higashi-ginza – Hibiya – Meiji-jingumae>→11:30 Meiji Shrine →<JR: Harajuku – Yoyogi – Iidabashi>→12:50 Koishikawa Korakuen Garden→1:30 Lunch (Dotonbori Kamukura, Tokyo Dome City)→<Toei Mita Line: Suidobashi – Otemachi>→2:50 East Gardens of the Imperial Palace→<Tokyo Metro: Otemachi – Asakusa>→4:20 Asakusa→17:00 Dismissal (Senso-ji Temple)

    Title: What's a Full-Day Private Walking Tour of Tokyo's Gardens and Shrines Like? A Licensed Guide's Report When I arrived at the second-floor lobby of the Hotel five minutes early, the guests were already waiting. Having already traveled around Japan for some time, they were skillfully using their SUICA cards not only for trains but also at vending machines. Although it was an unseasonable near-30-degree heat, the wisteria was in full bloom at Koishikawa Korakuen Garden, and double cherry blossoms and azaleas were in full bloom at the Imperial Palace. At Meiji Jingu Shrine there was plenty of shade so the heat was not felt, but at Koishikawa Korakuen Garden and the East Gardens we tried to walk seeking shade. Since one of the guests mentioned back pain, we used escalators and elevators as much as possible, and at the East Gardens we skipped the castle keep foundation. On the other hand, at Meiji Jingu Shrine they bought and dedicated ema votive tablets, and at Sensoji Temple they purchased ofuda charms, actively trying to embrace Japanese culture without being bound by cultural differences. At the end, I explained how to return to Ginza and the transportation for the next day, and we parted ways at Sensoji Temple.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayHigashi-ginza~Meiji-jingumae210JPY
    Section 2TrainHarajuku~Iidabashi180JPY
    Section 3SubwaySuidobashi~Otemachi180JPY
    Section 4SubwayOtemachi~Asakusa180JPY
    Total750JPY

    Thank you for requesting a tour guide during your upcoming visit to Japan. I am Teizo Tsuruyama. Please call me Teizo.
    I am Teizo Tsuruyama. Please call me Teizo.
    I am a long-time resident of Tokyo and I started tour guide in 2017. I have a family of four and I like growing vegetables. In our walking tour, we visit historic sites such as temples and beautiful Japanese gardens as well as popular shopping streets and food markets. We also explore the narrow backstreets to find little galleries, quiet cafes and cozy food stands.
    I look forward to traveling around Tokyo with you soon.

    Mar 31, 2026
    Teresa_M
    Viator review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Teizo was amazing. He…
    Teizo was amazing. He contacted us before our…

    Apr 19, 2025
    markY514NH
    Great day checking out some of the most beautiful, peaceful parts of Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed…

    Mar 29, 2025
    X1993SMkrisp
    Great Way to See Real Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Off the Beaten Path 6hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    We had…

    Mar 14, 2025
    gaberwhite
    Great tour throughout Tokyo with Teizo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our tour was amazing. Our tour…

  • Tochigi in One Day: Shinkyo Bridge & Tamozawa Imperial Villa Memorial

    Tochigi in One Day: Shinkyo Bridge & Tamozawa Imperial Villa Memorial

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:20 Meet up @ JR Nikko Station
    • 10:27 Board the bus
    • 10:35 Shinkyo Bridge
    • 10:50 Rinnoji Temple Shoyoen Garden
    • 11:30 Yuba Cafe Hazuki
    • 12:30 Sanbutsudo Hall
    • 13:00 Toshogu Shrine
    • 14:10 Futarasan Shrine
    • 14:40 Kanmangafuchi Abyss
    • 15:10 Tamozawa Imperial Villa Memorial Park
    • 17:20 End @ JR Nikko Station

    Title: What Is a Private Day Tour of Nikko and Imaichi Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group of four visiting from North America. Because one of the guests had an allergy to red meat, I reserved a restaurant that served yuba (tofu skin) dishes without red meat. Since this restaurant could only be booked for 11:30, the itinerary became slightly less efficient. The guests were very cheerful, and laughter continued throughout the day. Some of the guests were big fans of Japanese anime and manga, and all of them said they loved Japan. I had assumed it would be a day trip, but since they were staying overnight in Imaichi after the tour, we were able to enjoy the day without worrying about time. At the end, they were supposed to catch a train from the JR station, but it took some time to retrieve their luggage from the lockers, so they missed the train. I recommended they spend the wait at a nearby bar until the next train, and they said that was enjoyable in its own way. It was a delightful day.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusJR Nikko Station~Shinkyo Bridge220JPY
    Section 2BusTamozawa Imperial Villa Memorial Park~JR Nikko Station350JPY
    Total570JPY

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

    Aug 24, 2026
    arzed
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    A perfect day!
    My family and I had an…

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

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

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

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima-guchi station & port

    Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima-guchi station & port

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at Ujina port
    • 11:00 Get on a shuttle bus to Hiroshima Station
    • 11:30 Arrive at Miyajima-guchi station
    • 11:50 Take a ferry to Miyajima island
    • 12:00 Arrive at Miyajima island
    • 12:00~Stroll around Miyajima
    • -Itsukushima Shrine
    • -Omotesando shopping arcade
    • 13:30 Lunch at Yamaichi Bekkan
    • 15:00 Take a ferry to Miyajima-guchi
    • 15:10 Arrive at Miyajima-guchi station
    • 15:30 Take a JR train to Yokogawa Station
    • 16:00 Arrive at Peace Park
    • -Atomic Bomb Dome
    • -Children's Monument
    • -Flame of Peace
    • -Cenotaph
    • -Peace Memorial Museum
    • 17:30 Take a taxi to the Hiroshima Castle
    • 15:45 Head to the port by taxi

    Title: What's a Private Day Tour of Miyajima and Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a very close-knit group. In mid-April, it happened to be the middle day of the Momote Festival, and a sacred Noh performance was being dedicated at Itsukushima Shrine. On a wonderfully mild spring day, we were very lucky to be able to watch an authentic performance on the Noh stage set over the sea. Since one of the guests had a gluten allergy, I made a reservation at a ryokan on Miyajima that accommodates all kinds of dietary restrictions, and it turned out to be an excellent choice. One of the guests, who said they had not been able to eat at any restaurants in Japan during the trip, was delighted and enthusiastically ordered all sorts of dishes (more than the group could finish) and was very pleased. The oysters, which are usually past their prime at this time of year, were at their absolute best this year because the season had started late, and the guests thoroughly enjoyed grilled oysters. (They had brought gluten-free soy sauce, but at the restaurant they enjoyed them with lemon juice.) The vegetable tempura was also gluten-free, made with rice flour rather than wheat flour, and gluten-free sake was enjoyed both chilled and warm. The guests ordered an anagomeshi set as well as futomaki and a sushi set, wanting to try many things, and even became friendly with the owner, spending a very enjoyable time. (We canceled the World Heritage Sea Route we had reserved by phone, deciding instead to fully enjoy our lunch time here.) For the next destination, Peace Memorial Park, we traveled by JR and taxi. We visited the Atomic Bomb Dome, the Cenotaph, and the museum, and finally I took them to Hiroshima Castle, which had been requested. The weather was fine throughout, both guests were in great spirits, and I had the most wonderful time joining them!

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHiroshima~Miyajima-guchi420JPY
    Section 2FerryMiyajima-guchi~Miyajima300JPY
    Section 3FerryMiyajima~Miyajima-guchi200JPY
    Section 4TrainMiyajima-guchi~Yokogawa330JPY
    Total1,250JPY

    Hi, this is Mami! I am a qualified regional interpreter guide for Hiroshima Prefecture. I love guiding guests in Onomichi, a town with many Japanese heritage shrines and temples. Strolling through town is a lot of fun, as many of the renovated shops and restaurants each has its own character and design!
    The breath-taking view from Mt. Takami, is a picture-perfect scene, encompassing the many islands surrounded by the tranquility of the Seto Inland Sea. The highest mountain in Mukaishima surely is a must-see spot! Many attractive outdoor activities await, including cycling along the Shimanami Kaido, sea kayaking, or stand-up paddle boarding. For a more relaxing experience, Zen meditation is offered at the temples in Onomichi-city.

    According to your interest, I will prepare a special itinerary for you!

    May 10, 2025
    TheBrowns1000
    Hurry book this tour and request marvelous Mami Mukai for an amazing day!
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour…

    Apr 20, 2025
    Passport548066
    Sehr guter Tag in Hiroshima
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Mami war eine super…

    Apr 10, 2025
    K
    K6047IAjenniferv
    Incredible
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Mami was amazing! She meet us at…

    Apr 4, 2025
    Hansu24
    An Extraordinary Experience of Onomichi
    Tripadvisor review: Onomichi Half-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    My wife and I spent 2 days…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Jingu Shrine & Yamamoto-tei

    Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Jingu Shrine & Yamamoto-tei

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:20 Meet @ Hotel Metropolitan Marunouchi
    • 10:00 Meiji Jingu Shrine
    • 11:20 Imperial Palace
    • 12:10 Lunch @ Numazu Uogashi Sushi (Marunouchi Building)
    • 13:00 Ginza
    • 14:20 Shibamata Taishakuten Temple
    • 14:50 Yamamoto-tei
    • 16:10 Disband @ Hotel Metropolitan Marunouchi

    What Is a Private Tour of Tokyo's Meiji Shrine, Imperial Palace, and Shibamata Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guest was a visitor from North America who was visiting Japan for the first time. Before arriving in Tokyo, the guest had already visited Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, Hiroshima, and Kanazawa. At Meiji Shrine, the guest listened with great interest to explanations about the differences between shrines and temples, and seemed impressed by the quiet and solemn atmosphere. At the Imperial Palace, the guest was interested in the historical explanations about the role of the Emperor, the Meiji Restoration, and the Edo Shogunate. In Shibamata, the guest seemed impressed by the beauty of Taishakuten Temple and the garden of Yamamoto-tei. Since I accommodated the guest's wishes as requested, I believe the guest was satisfied.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayOtemachi~Meiji-jingumae900JPY
    Section 2SubwayMeiji-jingumae~Nijubashimae0JPY
    Section 3SubwayTokyo~Ginza0JPY
    Section 4SubwayHigashi-ginza~Oshiage0JPY
    Section 5TrainOshiage~Shibamata200JPY
    Section 6TrainShibamata~Oshiage200JPY
    Section 7SubwayOshiage~Otemachi0JPY
    Total1,300JPY

    I am Seizo Kamiuto, National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter (English). I was born in Kagoshima City in Kyushu (Southern part of Japan) and grew up there until the graduation from a high school. I came to Tokyo to enter a University in Tokyo and since then, I have lived in Tokyo for more than 40 years and therefore I know Tokyo and its suburbs and Kagoshima City very well. After retiring from an IT company, I have been working as a Guide Interpreter of English since March 2018. I have guided many overseas guests to the popular sightseeing spots in Tokyo, Kamakura, Mt. Fuji area (Kawaguchiko Lake etc.), Hakone, Nikko, Yokohama, Kawagoe and Kagoshima and so on. I have received good reviews from many guests. I can explain the history and the culture of Japan in detail. I look forward to an opportunity to guide you in Japan. Thank you. Seizo Kamiuto

    Sep 27, 2026
    jonaJ5014ZK
    Walking tour of Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Seizo was a tremendously fabulous…

    Sep 11, 2026
    M7402TTsharonp
    Higly recommend
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Had an amazing tour with Seizi Kaminto.…

    Sep 8, 2026
    OnAir57127583503
    Amazing Experience with Kamakura Day Tour
    Tripadvisor review: Japan Guide Agency
    We had an excellent time with Seizo Kamiuto as our…

    Sep 4, 2026
    B2319ZKjoseo
    Pleasant stroll through HISTORY
    Tripadvisor review: Kawagoe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We had a great time learning about…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Higashi-ginza Station & Asakusa Station

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Higashi-ginza Station & Asakusa Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet @ Hotel
    • 10:15 Higashi-ginza Station
    • 10:35 Nezu Station
    • Akitaya
    • 10:40 Nezu Shrine
    • 11:45 Yanaka Ginza Shopping Street
    • Echigoya Liquor Store, Goto's Candy
    • 12:30 Nippori Station
    • 12:50 Asakusa Station
    • Azumabashi Bridge, Kaminarimon, Nakamise, Sensoji Temple
    • 14:00 Disband @ Asakusa Station

    Title: What's a Private Walking Tour of Tokyo's Yanaka and Asakusa Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Body: The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from North America. At Nezu Shrine, the azaleas were in full bloom, and although the guests did not enter the paid area, they thoroughly enjoyed seeing the flowers together with the shrine's torii gates. As they were looking forward to trying local food, they bought and sampled delicious sesame mochi at a Japanese sweets shop near Nezu Station, and picked up rice crackers at a senbei shop along the way to Yanaka Ginza. The guests also enjoyed some fresh unpasteurized sake from a liquor store in the shopping street. Upon arriving in Asakusa, the guests preferred to take things slowly, so we proceeded while taking short breaks along the way. At Asakusa Station at the end, we carefully confirmed the return route together several times, and after some encouragement, we said goodbye with smiles and reassurance.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayHigashi-ginza Station~Nezu Station180JPY
    Section 2TrainNippori Station~Ueno Station150JPY
    Section 3SubwayUeno Station~Asakusa Station180JPY
    Total510JPY

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine

    Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at the lobby of La Vista Tokyo Bay (Toyosu)
    • 10:50 Visit Sensoji Temple, stroll around Asakusa, assistance with currency exchange
    • 11:45 Kobe beef lunch at Asakusa Kannon Street
    • 13:10 Stroll around Nijubashi Bridge at the Imperial Palace Outer Gardens
    • 14:00 Visit Meiji Shrine
    • 14:50 Stroll along Takeshita Street, enjoy crepes and other street food.
    • 15:40 Take photos at the Shibuya Scramble Crossing, Hachiko statue, etc.
    • 16:00 Disband at the Shibuya Station taxi stand

    Title: What Can You See on a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Shibuya, and Meiji Shrine The guests requested plenty of photo opportunities, so I prioritized guiding them to the most striking locations. In Asakusa, we took photos from Azuma Bridge with the Skytree in the background. I explained that the design of the Asahi Beer headquarters resembles a beer mug, and I described the meaning of the golden monument next to it and how it came to lie horizontally. After showing the full view of Senso-ji Temple from the tourist information center, we strolled through the Kaminarimon Gate and Nakamise shopping street. The guests showed interest in Japanese chopsticks and bought several as souvenirs. Throughout the walk they took many photos and seemed very satisfied. Since one of the guests had an allergy to fish, we had wagyu beef rice bowls and wagyu sushi at a wagyu restaurant on Kannon-dori, and everyone was amazed by how delicious the wagyu was. As the temperature rose to 27 degrees that day and the guests seemed tired from jet lag, we enjoyed a slow-paced walk around the Imperial Palace Outer Gardens while staying hydrated. At Meiji Shrine, the guests were moved by the forest space in the middle of the city. When I explained that all the trees form an artificial forest planted at the time the shrine was built, yet now blend in naturally, they said they could understand the Japanese people's respect for nature. On Takeshita Street, they enjoyed the atmosphere, including eating crepes while walking, but they were surprised that it was even more crowded than the Nakamise street at Senso-ji. In Shibuya, they first viewed the scramble crossing from an elevated position and then crossed it themselves. Before crossing, they seemed anxious, saying things like "I'm worried about bumping into people" and "I might get lost in such a big crowd," but once they crossed they enjoyed it, repeatedly exclaiming "Amazing" and "Great." Since the guests seemed tired from jet lag and a hotel issue (described below) and wished to return to their accommodation by taxi, I saw them off at the taxi stand at Shibuya Station and ended the tour. Special notes: The guests were visiting from Africa, and a travel agency had supposedly arranged their entire itinerary. However, it turned out after their arrival in Japan (the day before the tour) that the agency had booked the hotel for the wrong dates. As a result, they had to change hotels twice the day before the tour, and ultimately the only option available was a hotel in Toyosu, which was not very convenient in terms of transportation. In addition, the reservation with Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.) had been made not by the guests but by the travel agency, and the destinations for the day had also been decided solely by the agency, so the tour started with the guests unsure of where they would be visiting. In the end, they thoroughly enjoyed all the destinations and the wagyu lunch, and I was relieved that we could part ways with smiles. This was the second time I guided guests visiting from Africa. On the previous occasion as well, there was a guest who could not eat fish, so I was reminded that for guests visiting from Africa, it is necessary to research and prepare in advance a list of restaurants that can offer meat-based Japanese lunches (wagyu, tonkatsu, yakitori, etc.) or that can serve both seafood and meat options. I understand that on Japan Guide Agency tours, there are cases where prior discussions with guests are conducted through a travel agency, and I have indeed coordinated tour details via an agency on other Japan Guide Agency assignments. However, in a case like this one, where I believed I was coordinating with the guests through the agency, everything was in fact being decided based on the agency contact's own opinions, and on the day of the tour it became clear that this differed from the guests' understanding, which was confusing. For that reason, though I understand it may be difficult, I would appreciate Japan Guide Agency's support in enabling direct contact with guests in advance whenever possible. Since it is the duty of a licensed guide to meet the guests' expectations, I would like to be able to understand the guests' wishes directly and thoroughly in advance so that I can respond appropriately.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusShin-Toyosu Station~Shimbashi Station210JPY
    Section 2TrainShimbashi~Asakusa210JPY
    Section 3TrainAsakusa~Nijubashimae290JPY
    Section 4TrainNijubashimae~Meiji-jingumae210JPY
    Section 5TrainMeiji-jingumae~Shibuya180JPY
    Total1,100JPY

    Hello, I am Toru, a certified National Guide. I have been guiding since 2017, primarily in the Tokyo area, which includes Hakone, Kamakura, and Yokohama. To make your stay in Japan unforgettable, I always discuss a tour plan with my guests via email before their arrival. Please share your preferences, including the places you’d like to visit and the experiences you’d like to try during your stay in Tokyo. If this is your first visit to Japan, I’m excited to help make your time in Tokyo even more enjoyable by suggesting sample itineraries and offering travel tips.

    For more information about me, please visit my profile site.
    https://japan-cultural-traditional-experience.com/hello-welcome-to-japan/
    For your reference, please feel free to visit my blog, which features popular sightseeing spots and interesting experiences.
    https://japan-cultural-traditional-experience.com/

    I look forward to meeting you soon!

    Sep 25, 2026
    robert_s
    Fantastic experience!
    Viator review: Toyosu Tuna Auction & Tsukiji Local Food Tour, Licensed Guide
    We had a tour booked with Toru…

    Sep 24, 2026
    Pamela_S
    Ask for Toru!
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Our travel date for this tour…

    Sep 13, 2026
    S4579HLmaxf
    An unforgettable morning at Toyosu
    Tripadvisor review: Toyosu Tuna Auction & Tsukiji Local Food Tour, Licensed Guide
    Outstanding experience at the…

    Sep 7, 2026
    Victor_G
    All the temples and…
    Viator review: Kamakura Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
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  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:25 Meet at hotel 9:00 Nijo Castle 10:15 Kyoto Imperial Palace 11:35 Lunch (chicken cuisine) 12:50 Yasaka Pagoda 13:10 Kiyomizu-dera Temple 14:15 Kodai-ji Temple 14:50 Tour ends

    What Is a Private Day Tour of Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from North America. The tour was scheduled to start at 8:15, but the guests appeared in the lobby about 10 minutes late. They requested a chicken dish for lunch, so based on the itinerary I made a reservation at "Kushikura" on Takakura Oike-agaru. It is a place with a nice atmosphere and good food, but as I had also felt on a previous visit, its drawback is that the food takes a long time to arrive. It took about 25 minutes for what we ordered to come out. As a result, we spent an hour on lunch. Kiyomizu-dera Temple was also on the itinerary, and since it was very crowded, it took more time than expected, so by the time we finished the tour at Kodai-ji Temple, we were more than 30 minutes over schedule. When we had discussed the itinerary, we had planned that I would guide them to Nishiki Market after the tour, but in the end they went there on their own. Today it reached nearly 30 degrees, hot enough to call it summer. The guests walked well and did not do any extra shopping, which I was grateful for. The photo was taken at Kodai-ji Temple.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwaySanjo Keihan~Nijojo-mae1,100JPY
    Section 2SubwayNijojo-mae~Imadegawa0JPY
    Section 3SubwayImadegawa~Karasuma Oike0JPY
    Section 4SubwayKarasuma Oike~Higashiyama0JPY
    Section 5BusHigashiyama Sanjo~Kiyomizu-michi0JPY
    Total1,100JPY

    I was born and grew up in Kyoto and now live near Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto. I used to be a schoolteacher of English and welcome a lot of students from foreign countries. I really enjoyed showing them around Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, Himeji, and Hiroshima. I have been a professional tour guide for about 8 years. I always try to let my guests learn Japanese traditional and modern culture. Since I was born in Kyoto, I know a lot about its culture and people. I myself enjoyed several sports, such as soccer, judo, and marathon when I was young. I’m much interested in baseball and sumo. My motto as a tour guide is to let my guests learn about our tradition and culture precisely and really enjoy themselves. I strongly hope you will enjoy the tour in Japan with me.

    Sep 28, 2026
    Miguel_E
    Amazing Service
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had a wonderful time with Kazuo.…

    Sep 27, 2026
    T
    TrailBlazer47194
    Kazuo Sumi is a great guide.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Our guide Kazuo Sumi…

    Sep 1, 2026
    Steve6172014
    Excellent tour of Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had a great tour…

    Aug 7, 2026
    Pascale_Q
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Very good private tour of Kyoto with Kazuo
    We had…

  • Himeji Castle & Koko-en in 1 Day Tour

    Himeji Castle & Koko-en in 1 Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 10:00 Meet up @ In front of Himeji Station Central Ticket Gate
    • 2. 10:10 @ Castle View
    • 3. 10:45 @ Himeji Castle
    • 4. 12:45 @ Kokoen Garden
    • 5. 13:15 Lunch @ Otemon Chaya
    • 6. 15:00 @ Mount Shosha Engyoji Temple (Maniden Hall, Daikodo Hall, Jogyodo Hall, Jikido Hall)
    • 7. 17:20 Disband @ Himeji Station North Exit

    Title: What's a Full-Day Private Tour of Himeji Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Himeji Castle, Koko-en, and Engyo-ji Temple Today's guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from Europe. They had arrived two weeks earlier and, after touring various regions, came to Himeji from Osaka today. After sightseeing in Himeji, they planned to return home from Kansai International Airport the next day. We met in front of the central ticket gate at Himeji Station. At Castle View, I explained an overview of Himeji Castle and the historical background of its construction. We then purchased round-trip discount tickets for the bus and the Shosha-zan Ropeway to the summit station, and set off on foot toward Himeji Castle. It was a hot day for April. As it was a Saturday, the main keep of Himeji Castle was crowded, but the guests were impressed by both the defensive features and the beauty of the castle. Koko-en Garden, which we visited next, was also full of visitors, but the guests seemed to enjoy the beauty of each of the individual gardens. After Koko-en, we had a light meal at a nearby teahouse and then took the bus to Engyo-ji Temple. Engyo-ji Temple was also busy with visitors that day. Even so, the guests were delighted, saying that the quiet path leading from Maniden Hall to the three main halls, and the atmosphere around the inner sanctuary seen from the Jikido (dining hall), were truly moving. Overall it became a somewhat long tour, but in the end I believe it was a very good one.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Bus[Shinki Bus Kokoen-mae] Station~[Shinki Bus Shosha] Station320JPY
    Section 2Bus[Engyoji Microbus Round Trip (Shinnojo Ropeway Summit Station~Maniden Hall)]500JPY
    Section 3Bus[Shinki Bus Shosha] Station~[Shinki Bus Himeji Station-mae] Station320JPY
    Total1,140JPY

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

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

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

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

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

    Sep 29, 2026
    X
    X1794ZGstevew
    Kobe 4hr guided tour
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    Norio pickup us up ontime &…

    Sep 17, 2026
    jacquelinecI8863UY
    No rush beautiful walking tour.
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We had a wonderful time. Norio…

    Sep 15, 2026
    niy679
    Kobe day trip
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We had an amazing tour with Norio. He…

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