Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Shimbashi Station & Asakusa Station

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Shimbashi Station & Asakusa Station

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    March, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meet @Conrad Tokyo
    • 9:45 Shimbashi Station
    • 9:55 Tokyo Station
    • 10:20 East Gardens (Higashi-Gyoen)
    • 11:30 Otemachi Station
    • 11:45 Sendagi Station
    • Yanaka Ginza
    • 12:55 Nippori Station
    • 13:15 Asakusa Station
    • Asakusa Tourist Center, Nakamise, Sensoji Temple
    • 13:30 Dismiss @Asakusa

    Title: What Is a Private Walking Tour of Yanaka and Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan from Europe. One of the guests had previously lived in Osaka to study Japanese, and showed a high level of interest by trying out some simple Japanese phrases and, right after we met, asking me questions such as "How has Japan changed over the past ten years?" In addition to the original plan, I guided the group around the Yanaka neighborhood, which they liked very much. In particular, at a Japanese tableware shop, the guests happily enjoyed shopping for Kutani ware and tenugui hand towels. They asked many questions and were smiling throughout, which made me feel happy as well.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShimbashi Station～Tokyo Station150JPY
    Section 2SubwayOtemachi Station～Sendagi Station180JPY
    Section 3TrainNippori Station～Ueno Station150JPY
    Section 4SubwayUeno Station～Asakusa Station180JPY
    Total660JPY

    Tour Report by Lily

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Request Booking

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

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

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

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

  • Kyoto in One Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha & Nonomiya Shrine

    Kyoto in One Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha & Nonomiya Shrine

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    March, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:08　Meet at Kyoto Station
    • 8:40　Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 10:35　Nijo Castle
    • 12:20　Lunch in Arashiyama
    • 13:10　Tenryu-ji Temple
    • 13:35　Bamboo Grove Path
    • 13:50　Nonomiya Shrine
    • 14:30　Escort to Kyoto Station and end of tour

    Title: Can You Do a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Arriving by Shinkansen? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. They traveled from Tokyo by Shinkansen, and I met them at Kyoto Station before heading straight to Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine. Walking through the rows of torii gates was of course a highlight, but the group also enjoyed the "Omokaru-ishi" stone and the "Nature Rising Pine" (Neagari no Matsu). At Nijo Castle, they were captivated by its splendor, which felt more like a palace than a fortress. When I explained how the main gate had been deliberately rebuilt from a two-story structure into a single-story one to welcome the Emperor, and how the gardens were beautifully arranged for the occasion, someone asked, "So the Emperor was greater than the Shogun!?" For lunch they enjoyed a yuba (tofu skin) cuisine meal, and afterward I guided them through the Tenryu-ji Temple garden, the Bamboo Grove path, and Nonomiya Shrine. Since they were returning to Tokyo, I saw them off at Kyoto Station, ending the tour.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto～Inari150JPY
    Section 2TrainFushimi Inari～Nijojo-mae440JPY
    Section 3TrainNijojo-mae～Arashiyama510JPY
    Section 4TrainSaga-Arashiyama～Kyoto240JPY
    Total1,340JPY

    Tour Report by Shuji

    My name is Shuji, meaning “Excellent Manager” in English. I was born in Hiroshima 1952. I have 2 children and 3 grandchildren.
    After graduating Kyoto Univ. I joined Mitsubishi-UFJ Bank, Osaka Branch where I met my wife who was a master of Englsih, so I started studying English.
    The bank allowed me to go to Columbia Graduate business school in New York and got MBA Degree there. I worked in London and Manchester Branch.
    During staying in U.K., I was introduced by BBC and Financial Times News Paper about my achievement there. I was selected as a personal assistant and interpreter for the President of the Bank.
    I made many business trips with him to overseas countries. I experienced as an interpreter for meeting late Henry Kissinger and the President of Citi. Corp.
    I changed the job to ORIX corporation, there I was promoted to a Board Member. When the company had acquired Dutch company, I was a member as an accountant to check the Dutch company’s statements of accounts.
    My hobbies are cooking, singing a song, playing tennis & golf, enjoy seeing arts especially opera & musical, travel. I am also busy with taking care of grandchildren. I passed Government Licensed Guide Exam. in 2016. After I retired in 2017, I started guide job as a part timer. So far, I accomplished guide job more than 500 times.
    My area coverage is from Tokyo, Hakone, Kamakura, Mt. Fuji to Kyoto, Nara, Oaka, Hiroshima. I am also able to guide Tea Ceremony, Maiko/Geisha, Sushi Making, Calligraphy, Sumo, Samurai, etc. I can speak excellent English. My knowledge is very wide and deep about not only sightseeing places but Japanese History, Culture, Religion, Daily Life. I know many foreign countries and people. I love talking with all kinds of people including babies with interesting humor.
    By the way, I look young for my age of 74.

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    Jul 16, 2026
    salomons666
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto fun
    Amazing with our guide Shuji very kind and acknowledge

    Jul 15, 2026
    P9099TXkennethr
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    A great day
    A great day in the Company of mr. Shuji.

    Jun 28, 2026
    A
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    AmyfromPlano
    Shuji is the best! Once we booked this tour, he reached…

    Jun 22, 2026
    yeseniag981
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 6hr Private Walking Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Osaka Tour
    Our tour guide Shuji was amazing. He was…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Shibuya Scramble Crossing

    Tokyo in One Day: Shibuya Scramble Crossing

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    March, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 12:30 Meet up @ Blossom Hibiya
    • 12:55 Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • 13:15 Meiji Shrine ~ Takeshita Street
    • 15:00 Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 16:40 Asakusa (Kaminarimon ~ Nakamise ~ Senso-ji Temple ~ Hoppy Street)
    • 17:50 Nihonbashi Takashimaya Pokemon Center
    • 18:40 Disband @ Shimbashi Station

    Title: What Can You See on a Private Full-Day Tokyo Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America on their first trip to Japan. They are experienced divers who have explored seas around the world, and this time they stopped in Tokyo for a short stay on their way to a scuba diving trip in Palau. On the morning of the tour, they had joined a two-hour walking tour of Tsukiji. At Shibuya Station, we arranged their Narita Express tickets for the following day. They were amazed by the contrast between Meiji Shrine and Takeshita Street, and were unexpectedly excited by the animal cafes, such as the mini pig cafe. It rained at the Imperial Palace, but fortunately the rain had stopped by the time we reached Asakusa. When they mentioned wanting to buy Pokemon goods for their grandchild, we cut the Asakusa visit a little short and, on the way back to the hotel, I took them to the Pokemon Center at Nihonbashi Takashimaya. One of the guests was interested in the causes of Japan's declining birthrate, aging population, and the decline of the Japan that had seemed so vibrant in their youth, and I shared my own perspective, which likely would not come up on ChatGPT.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayGinza Line Shimbashi～Ginza Line Shibuya178JPY
    Section 2TrainJR Shibuya～JR Harajuku146JPY
    Section 3SubwayChiyoda Line Meiji-jingumae～Chiyoda Line Otemachi209JPY
    Section 4SubwayTozai Line Otemachi～Ginza Line Asakusa178JPY
    Section 5SubwayAsakusa Line Asakusa～Asakusa Line Nihonbashi178JPY
    Section 6SubwayGinza Line Nihonbashi～Ginza Line Shimbashi178JPY
    Total1,067JPY

    Tour Report by Hideki

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

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

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

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

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

  • Tokyo Family-Friendly Customized Tour

    Tokyo Family-Friendly Customized Tour

    Tokyo Family-Friendly Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    March, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 10:00　Meet up ＠Hotel Classic Akasaka
    • 2. 10:30　＠Imperial Palace (Sakuradamon Gate, Main Gate, Nijubashi Bridge)
    • 3. 11:00　＠Tokyo Station (Station Plaza, Station Building, Midori no Madoguchi, Yaesu Exit)
    • 4. 11:45　＠Nihonbashi (Takashimaya Food Floor)
    • 5. 12:30　Lunch ＠"Chanko Room" (Asakusa)
    • 6. 13:00　＠Asakusa (Sensoji Temple, Nakamise-dori Street, West Approach)
    • 7. 15:00　＠Meiji Shrine
    • 8. 16:20　Disband ＠Hotel Classic Akasaka

    Title: What Is a Family-Friendly Private Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from North America. According to the group, there was some lively energy among the younger members. On Tokyo's quiet subway, the group was mindful of good manners and staying quiet so as not to disturb others, but in reality everyone was very well-behaved. I felt that booking the family-friendly Tokyo tour was a wonderful expression of the group's care for one another. In Asakusa, I guided them to a spot on the western approach where you can try goldfish scooping, a place I do not usually include. They quickly decided to give it a try. Using three "poi" scoops, one member of the group tried hard but could not catch a single goldfish; however, at Senso-ji Temple, their omikuji fortune came out as "good luck." Another member drew a "bad luck" omikuji, but managed to scoop one goldfish with a single "poi." Yet, perhaps out of kindness, they released the goldfish right after catching it. Meanwhile, another member of the group showed interest in the melon pan being sold nearby and asked what it was, so I explained that it is a very popular type of bread. During their stay in Tokyo, which will last a few days, the group mentioned they have a reservation at teamLab Planets coming up, and among the places we visited today, they expressed a wish to return to spots they loved, such as Nakamise Street and the food floor of Nihonbashi Takashimaya. As the tour was coming to an end, it began to drizzle, but we managed to arrive at the Hotel safely before the rain started in earnest. At first, I was concerned that jet lag might make the younger members of the group quite sleepy in the afternoon, but after lunch and dorayaki ice cream in Asakusa, everyone seemed to perk up. The group remarked that they expected everyone would head to bed early tonight and sleep soundly.

    Click here for more details: Tokyo Family-Friendly Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassTokyo Metro Yurakucho Line Nagatacho Station～Sakuradamon Station600JPY
    Section 2Free PassTokyo Metro Ginza Line Nihonbashi Station～Asakusa Station0JPY
    Section 3Free PassTokyo Metro Ginza Line Asakusa Station～Chiyoda Line Meiji-jingumae Station0JPY
    Section 4Free PassTokyo Metro Chiyoda Line Meiji-jingumae Station～Akasaka Station0JPY
    Total600JPY

    Tour Report by Noripy

    Hello, I’m Noripy.
    I am a lively woman in my 60s who loves having fun. My charm lies in my bright and approachable personality. Drawing on over 30 years of international experience, I began working as a tour guide in 2023. I have conducted over 100 tours annually, ensuring that my clients enjoy Tokyo and its surrounding areas. I have received high praise from a wide range of customers, from teenagers to people in their 80s. I cater to solo travelers, couples, newlyweds, families, and groups of up to about 10 people. Living in the heart of the city, I actively guide tours primarily in Tokyo. In addition to being certified in English, one of my strengths is being able to communicate effectively in Spanish as well.
    I’m looking forward to meeting you all in Tokyo!

    Request Booking

    Jul 3, 2026
    Jody D
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Full Day Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle from Yokohama
    Best Post cruise tour ever
    It was…

    June 19, 2026
    Alec T
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo in 4 hours
    Noripy was excellent! She guided us through…

    Jun 16, 2026
    Hema_R
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Lovely experience. My…
    Lovely experience. My guide was an absolutely adorable lady…

    Jun 3, 2026
    Sara B
    Tokyo walking tour with Noripy. A+!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Noripy gave a 5/5 tour!…

  • Osaka in Half a Day: Umeda Sky Building & Osaka Castle and stay there

    Osaka in Half a Day: Umeda Sky Building & Osaka Castle and stay there

    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    March, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:15　Meet at karaksa hotel grande Shin-Osaka Tower
    • 9:15-10:50 Umeda Sky Building
    • 11:10-14:25 Move to Osaka Castle and stay there.
    • Around 15:00 End of the tour

    What Is a Private Osaka Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Umeda Sky Building and Osaka Castle At first, part of the group arrived at the meeting point about 10 minutes late, and the rest arrived even later, so we started about 15 minutes behind schedule. Due to the unstable weather, one of the guests had caught a cold and had a particularly bad cough. As we walked in the light rain, one of the guests suggested that the other go to Osaka Castle alone, but I said, "Let's at least visit the Umeda Sky Building together since it's indoors," and we went there. One of the guests bought many souvenirs, including a LEGO set for making characters, for their grandchild. The other guest also became willing to visit Osaka Castle, so we moved there by JR. In the morning, the JR Kyoto Line had been delayed due to a passenger accident, but service had recovered while we were at the Umeda Sky Building. The guests walked slowly, but they enjoyed taking photos and had a strong intellectual curiosity, showing interest in many things, so the scheduled guiding time had long passed before we knew it. The plum grove at Osaka Castle was especially beautiful right now, and we spent time there as well. I took many photos of the guests. Since the guests were both enjoying themselves so much, I could not bring myself to say "it's time to wrap up," and on the way back I saw them off to a point where the hotel was visible before we parted ways. There was a warmth that made it feel as if we were not meeting for the first time, and I truly enjoyed the tour myself.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShin-Osaka～Umeda240JPY
    Section 2TrainOsaka～Osaka Castle Park170JPY
    Section 3TrainOsaka Castle Park～Shin-Osaka190JPY
    Total600JPY

    Tour Report by Yuki

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

    Request Booking

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

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

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

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

  • Tokyo: Departure: Kyobashi Station & Shinjuku Station

    Tokyo: Departure: Kyobashi Station & Shinjuku Station

    Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide

    March, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Meeting place: Hotel, Tokyo
    • 8:10 Departure: Kyobashi Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 8:30 Arrive at Asakusa Station
    • Asakusa Senso-ji Temple
    • Asakusa Shrine
    • Nakamise-dori Shopping Street
    • 9:30 Depart Asakusa Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Ueno
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • 10:00 Arrive at Tsukiji Station
    • Tsukiji Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 11:00 Depart Tsukiji Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • Hibiya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • 11:20 Arrive at Otemachi Station
    • Tokyo Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • Nijubashi Bridge
    • 12:30 Nijubashimae Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • 12:45 Arrive at Hibiya Station
    • Hibiya Lunch: Tsukiji Sushisei / Hibiya Chanter
    • 13:45 Depart Hibiya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • 14:15 Arrive at Meiji-jingumae Station
    • Harajuku Meiji Shrine
    • Takeshita Street
    • Cat Street
    • 15:00 Depart Harajuku Station
    • (JR Yamanote Line)
    • 15:15 Arrive at Shibuya Station
    • Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • Hachiko Statue
    • 15:45 Depart Shibuya Station
    • (JR Yamanote Line)
    • 16:00 Shinjuku Station
    • Shinjuku Omoide Yokocho
    • Kabukicho
    • 16:30 Depart Shinjuku Station
    • (JR Chuo Line)
    • Tokyo Station
    • 17:00 Dismissal: Tokyo Station

    Title: What's a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Tsukiji, the Imperial Palace, Harajuku, Shibuya, and Shinjuku The guests were a group visiting from North America, all traveling to Japan for the first time. On this trip they were staying in Japan for a two-week period, with plans for a day trip to Mount Fuji from Tokyo, followed by visits to Kyoto and Osaka before returning to Tokyo and heading home. They had arrived at Narita Airport the previous day and taken the Narita Express to their accommodation, buying dinner at a nearby convenience store that evening. Tomorrow they were planning a day trip to Mount Fuji, then continuing on to Kyoto, Osaka, and Nara before returning to Tokyo and flying home. The tour took place under clear skies, though it felt a little cold at times. We first went to Asakusa. I explained about "Sensoji Temple and the history from Edo to Tokyo," "what a five-story pagoda is," and "the difference between Buddhism and Shinto." There were questions such as "Do all Japanese people believe in Buddhism?", "What kind of teaching is Buddhism?", "How do Shinto and Buddhism differ?", and "Are there Catholics in Japan?" The Nakamise shopping street was very crowded as usual. We moved on to Tsukiji, which was as busy as ever with large crowds. I explained "the history of the fish market since the Edo period" and "the difference between Toyosu Market and the Tsukiji Outer Market." We browsed various shops and purchased and sampled "strawberry candy" and "wasabi peanuts." There were also questions such as "Why are there so many people here?" and "Do all Tokyo residents come here to buy fish?" We then moved to the Imperial Palace and strolled through the East Gardens. We saw some early-blooming cherry blossoms and took commemorative photos in front of them. I explained about "the transition from the Edo period to the Meiji era," "the Meiji Restoration," "why Edo Castle became the Imperial Palace," and "an overview of the current Imperial Family." There were comments such as "The pine trees are beautiful," and questions like "Does the Emperor really live inside here?" From there we moved to Hibiya and had a light lunch at a sushi restaurant in Hibiya. The comment was that "the fish was fresh and the price was extremely reasonable." We moved on to Harajuku, first visiting Meiji Shrine. I explained about "what Shinto is," "the difference between Buddhism and Shinto," and "the history of Edo and the Meiji Restoration." There was a comment that "it is wonderful to have such a green park in the middle of the city." We walked briskly through the grounds. We moved to Shibuya, and I explained about "the history of Shibuya." We walked across the Scramble Crossing and took commemorative photos in front of the Hachiko statue. We then moved to Shinjuku. Passing through "Omoide Yokocho," we headed to Kabukicho and took commemorative photos in front of the Godzilla Head. I explained an overview of Shinjuku's history and its current state. There were comments and questions such as "How is public safety? Is it safe to walk alone?" and "It resembles Times Square in New York." There were also comments such as "Japanese people are all polite," "Why are there no trash cans?", "The public restrooms in Japan are clean and pleasant," and "I don't see any homeless people." There was also a comment that "everywhere in the city there is no litter and it is clean. I can't believe it." I saw them off at Tokyo Station, where we parted ways.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKyobashi Station～Asakusa Station209JPY
    Section 2SubwayAsakusa Station～Tsukiji Station209JPY
    Section 3SubwayTsukiji Station～Otemachi Station178JPY
    Section 4SubwayNijubashimae Station～Hibiya Station178JPY
    Section 5SubwayHibiya Station～Meiji-jingumae Station178JPY
    Section 6TrainHarajuku Station～Shibuya Station146JPY
    Section 7TrainShibuya Station～Shinjuku Station167JPY
    Section 8TrainShinjuku Station～Tokyo Station208JPY
    Total1,473JPY

    Tour Report by Masa

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

    Request Booking

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

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

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

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

  • Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa & Shibuya Scramble Crossing

    Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa & Shibuya Scramble Crossing

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    March, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:25 Meet at hotel
    • 11:00-12:10 Asakusa
    • 12:40-13:20 Lunch at Tsukiji
    • 13:20-14:00 Tsukiji
    • 14:30-14:50 Shopping in Ginza
    • 15:10-16:00 Meiji Shrine
    • 16:05-16:20 Takeshita Street
    • 16:25-16:35 Shibuya Scramble Crossing

    What's a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Tsukiji, and Shibuya The guests were visiting Japan for the first time. At Nakamise in Asakusa, they purchased matcha goods, enjoyed drawing omikuji fortunes, and bought many omamori charms. At Tsukiji, they wished to visit a high-end sushi restaurant, so I took them there and they were delighted to eat there. In Ginza they looked at pearls as a gift for a family member, but decided against it as the prices were higher than expected. At Meiji Shrine, they enjoyed the historical explanations and the sake barrels, and had matcha ice cream. As they wanted to buy souvenirs for a family member, we added Takeshita Street on short notice, where they bought many souvenirs at a 100-yen shop and a Sanrio character goods shop. We walked around the Hachiko statue and the Shibuya scramble crossing, ending the tour slightly over time. One of the guests was interested in Japanese samurai through games, and was pleased when I explained the difference between a taiko and a shogun.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainAkasaka-mitsuke～Asakusa209JPY
    Section 2TrainAsakusa～Tsukiji209JPY
    Section 3TrainTsukiji～Ginza178JPY
    Section 4TrainGinza～Meiji-jingumae178JPY
    Section 5TrainMeiji-jingumae～Shibuya178JPY
    Total952JPY

    Tour Report by Taku

    Hello! I’m TAKU.
    Don’t worry I’m NOT TAX!

    With an extensive knowledge of history and love for this amazing city, I am dedicated to giving unforgettable experiences that reveal the essence of Tokyo and surrounding area. Tokyo offers such a variety of attractions and beautiful places such as historical and cultural places, parks, museums and modern buildings & towers.

    I have deep knowledge to guide from the historical point of view, Meiji Shrine, the Imperial Palace, Asakusa, off-the-beaten-tracks and many other spots in Tokyo. In addition, I have specialized skills to explain Sumo, viewing tournaments or stable practice tour because I have been a fan of Sumo more than 50 years.

    Beyond my tour guiding expertise, I hold a master’s degree in Medical administration and financial planning, and I had worked for health insurance societies and pension fund, I can explain Japanese Social Security system while my guiding.

    Tokyo has convenient public transportation system, but it is still difficult for visitors to use without any difficulties because of using Japanese signs. That is when you need a guide, too.

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    Apr 5, 2025
    michaelcD221JN
    Perfect City Tour
    Tripadvisor review: Private Tokyo Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    We were in Tokyo as…

    Mar 20, 2025
    Lisa_H
    The BEST Tokyo Tour!
    Viator review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide from Yokohama
    Touring Tokyo with our guide, Taku,…

    Mar 14, 2025
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    Tokyo tour from cruise ship
    Viator review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide from Yokohama
    Communication with guide was exceptional…

    Feb 22, 2025
    Jia_R
    Yokohama walking tour
    Viator review: Yokohama 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    My tour guide is Taku-san who is a great…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Strolled around Omoide Yokocho & Takeshita Street

    Tokyo in One Day: Strolled around Omoide Yokocho & Takeshita Street

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    March, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at ibis Styles Tokyo Ginza East (The night before, the guests requested to change the meeting time from 8:00 to 9:00. The email content has already been shared with JGA.)
    • 9:30 Assisted the guests with purchasing medicine inside JR Tokyo Station.
    • 10:00 Assisted with purchasing Welcome Suica JAPAN at the Station Travel Concierge at Shinjuku Station South Exit
    • 10:20 Took commemorative photos in front of 3DCat "The Cat of Shinjuku East Exit (official name)", took commemorative photos near the Godzilla Head, and purchased "Doraemon UNO" at Don Quijote.
    • 10:50 Pachinko experience at a pachinko parlor near Seibu Shinjuku Station (one of the guests won a jackpot on the 1-yen pachinko and got green tea drinks and rice crackers as prizes)
    • 11:20 Strolled around Omoide Yokocho
    • 11:40 Meiji Jingu Shrine
    • 12:30 Lunch at "Restaurant Yoyogi inside Meiji Jingu Forest Terrace"
    • 13:20 Takeshita Street
    • 14:10 Took commemorative photos in front of the faithful dog Hachiko, strolled around Shibuya Scramble Crossing and Shibuya Center Street
    • 15:20 Dismissal in front of "Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line Hatchobori Station" (explained the way to the hotel)

    Title: What Is a Private Tokyo Sightseeing Tour Like for International Guests? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from South America, who had arrived in Japan two days earlier. The previous day they had visited Mount Fuji, then enjoyed sightseeing in Asakusa and a meal at the Tsukiji Outer Market. Tonight they were heading to Seoul, then traveling on via Singapore, and planned to return to Tokyo at the end of this month when the cherry blossoms are expected to be in full bloom, for more Tokyo sightseeing. One member of the group spoke a little Japanese, while some of the guests spoke only Portuguese. Since one of the guests could speak English, the tour proceeded with that person interpreting my English into Portuguese for the rest of the group. Seeing them purchase hanafuda cards and traditional condolence envelopes, and saying "itadakimasu" before lunch, I truly felt how Japanese culture had taken root as a part of their daily lives. One of the quieter members of the group offered a perfectly pronounced "otsukaresama deshita" at the end of the tour, and all my tiredness melted away. The guests were smiling throughout the entire tour. It was a day when I truly felt that a smile can transcend any language barrier.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainJR Keiyo Line Hatchobori Station～JR Chuo Line Shinjuku Station230JPY
    Section 2TrainJR Yamanote Line Shinjuku Station～JR Yamanote Line Harajuku Station150JPY
    Section 3TrainJR Yamanote Line Harajuku Station～JR Yamanote Line Shibuya Station150JPY
    Section 4TrainTokyo Metro Ginza Line Shibuya Station～Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line Hatchobori Station210JPY
    Total740JPY

    Tour Report by Bruce

    Hello (Konnichiwa). My name is Masanori SUGANO. Most of my friends call me Bruce, so you can call me Bruce. It would be my pleasure to act as a guide for you as I have been a guide for over twenty years. I curate my tours to suit your quest for knowledge and make you laugh with Dad jokes as an ice breaker. I can add some of my experiences as seasoning since I’m a seasoned guide. I always gain a new perspective through my guests’ eyes, and that’s why I am passionate about my job.
    You can create your own itinerary, and when we meet, you can let me know what things you want to see. I am very flexible and can go off the beaten track on your request.
    Should you have any questions, please feel free to contact me. I am looking forward to meeting you.
    Thank you (Arigatou-gozaimasu).

    Request Booking

    Jul 2, 2026
    jamespmccormick
    Tripadvisor review: The Best Family-Friendly Tokyo Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Great Tokyo tour with Bruce!
    We booked a 6 hour…

    Jun 12, 2026
    716suzannab
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Amazing experience
    Bruce was an amazing guide. He taught us some essential…

    May 27, 2026
    beaufordtjustice
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour of Tokyo with Bruce!
    My son and I had a…

    May 24, 2026
    A2151KImelissab
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Day out in Tokyo
    I enjoyed a solo guided tour of Tokyo…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour by Car

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour by Car

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    March, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1000 Mandarin Oriental Tokyo (1 min from Mitsukoshimae Station on the Ginza Line) Meet
    • 1010 Imperial Palace Otemon Gate – Tatsumi Yagura Turret – Gyoko-dori Avenue – Marunouchi – Tokyo Station
    • 1115 Shibuya Scramble Crossing – Hachiko Statue
    • 1200 Koishikawa Korakuen – Lunch at Kantokutei – Stroll through the garden
    • 1345 Nezu Shrine
    • 1410 Tokyo Skytree Tower
    • 1500 Sensoji Temple – Enter from Kaminarimon Gate, exit at Niten-mon Gate
    • 1600 Return to hotel

    Title: What Is a Private Car Tour of Tokyo Like for First-Time Visitors? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. They were on a longer journey that included a cruise through Asia before arriving in Tokyo by air the previous night. Since it was their first visit to Japan, they chose a guided tour with a vehicle. The next day, they were scheduled to visit Mount Fuji with a [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide. The day after that, they planned to explore the city on their own and shop for souvenirs, before departing Japan by air the following day. I received their own Tokyo Travel Guide (English version) and tried to explain the plan for their third day, but since they were more comfortable in French than in English, I considered obtaining a French version at the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center. Fortunately, a French version was available at the entrance of Koishikawa Korakuen Garden, so I used it to explain today's destinations and possible future sightseeing spots. As they wished to have a lunch that felt authentically Japanese, they seemed very satisfied with the meal at Kantokutei within Koishikawa Korakuen Garden. Today's driver mainly specializes in sightseeing, which was very helpful. They handled the Shibuya crossing smoothly as well. Around Nezu Shrine we were more than 20 minutes behind schedule, but we managed to hurry afterward and completed the entire itinerary.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherMandarin Oriental Tokyo～Mandarin Oriental Tokyo0JPY
    Total0JPY

    Tour Report by Ted

    I had worked in the international business scene for over 40 years and traveled to North America and European countries over 1000 days.
    After I retired from the business, I traveled to most of the major sightseeing spots in all 47 prefectures in Japan.

    My guide is starting from a brief history of the site where I am going to guide. I usually add a briefing about Japanese culture based on religions, such as Shinto Shrine and Buddhist temples. A geographic background behind the history is also important.
    My course includes 4 to 5 (in 6 hours) sites from the following depending on where I will pick the guests up;
    – Senso ji Temple
    – Kappabashi Kitchenware Market
    – Tokyo Skytree
    – Ueno Park
    – Nezu Shrine
    – Imperial Palace outer park
    – Tokyo Central Station, Marunouchi historic district
    – Tsukiji Fish Market
    – Koishikawa Korakuen Garden
    – Ginza
    – Odaiba
    – Hama Rikyu Garden
    – Shinjuku Gyoen Garden
    – Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
    – Roppongi
    – Meiji Shrine
    – Harajuku & Takeshita Street
    – Shibuya
    – and Any of your interest.

    I am happy to introduce Japanese Manga/Anime cultures such as Akihabara, Nakano Broadway and Ghibli related sites.
    Travelling along the JR central line where guests can stopover at major animation studios (it is not accepted to visit the inside). The majority of animation studios such as TMS Entertainment, SUNRISE, A1 Pictures etc. are located in this area. Suginami Animation museum, Studio Ghibli and Ghibli Museum are also located.
    Guests can feel old houses in the Spirited Away scene in the Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum.

    I can also provide a pilgrimage to the sacred place (shooting location) for the Shinkai Makoto animation movies such as Your name, Weathering with you, and Suzume.

    Another interesting feature is to visit authentic Japanese style pub meals such as Yakitori, Karaage, and Sushi etc.
    Asakusa Hoppy Street, Ameyoko Street, Yurakucho, Shimbashi, Shinjuku Golden gai, Shinjuku Omoide Yokocho are nice to visit.

    A Sake tasting at Sake Cellar can be an option.

    In addition to the above, I am available in the neighboring cities.

    Kawagoe is an old town developed in the 17th century. It has very close relationship with the Edo central government. Kawagoe castle ruins, Kitain temple and 500 Buddha statues will welcome the guests.
    These areas are renovated and provide an old days atmosphere.
    Japanese style sweets food stands will fascinate the guests.
    Kawagoe is about 1 – 1.5 train trip from Tokyo.

    Kamakura is the first Samurai worriers government established in the late 12th century.
    The Buddhism are introduced to Japan in the 6th century, and flourished at Nara and Kyoto later. A newer Buddhism sect such as Zen has well developed at Kamakura area.
    Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, Gigantic Buddha statue at Kotokuin Temple and the flower temple Hasedera Temple are must-see.
    Kamakura is about 1 – 1.5 train trip from Tokyo.

    I am also happy to develop any other site the guests have interest.

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    Jul 2, 2026
    Susan M
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Family fun in Tokyo.
    A wonderful day. Ted customized our tour…

    Jun 26, 2026
    ann r
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Educational with kind, generous guide
    My teenage sons and I learned…

    Jun 14, 2026
    141yunb
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Can’t believe all that we got to see in 6 hours
    We…

    May 18, 2026
    B
    Beth56646
    Great tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Ted and I agreed upon what we would see…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Conrad Tokyo & Imperial Palace Nijubashi Bridge

    Tokyo in One Day: Conrad Tokyo & Imperial Palace Nijubashi Bridge

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    March, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Conrad Tokyo
    • 9:15 Hamarikyu
    • 10:30 Asakusa Culture and Tourism Center, Sensoji Temple, etc.
    • 12:30 Ueno – Statue of Saigo Takamori, Kiyomizu Kannon Hall
    • 12:50 Tokyo National Museum
    • 14:10 Tokyo Station
    • 14:40 Imperial Palace Nijubashi Bridge
    • 15:00 Dismissal @ Sakuradamon Station

    Can You Reschedule a Private Tokyo Tour on Short Notice? A Licensed Guide's Report on Hamarikyu and Tokyo Station I guided a group visiting from North America. The evening before the tour, I received a message asking whether the tour could be moved to the following day, as one of the guests had fallen on some snow and been injured, and wanted to have an X-ray taken at a hospital. Although it was a sudden request that gave me some hesitation, I was able to accommodate the change since my schedule allowed it. I had assumed it might have been a sprained foot and was concerned about walking, but when we met the next day it turned out to be a hand injury, and while there was still some discomfort, we were able to carry out the tour without any problems. At Hamarikyu the rapeseed flowers were in full bloom and the plum blossoms were still out, which the guests were delighted to see. Since they had not yet bought their Shinkansen tickets to Kyoto for the following day, and we happened to be stopping by Tokyo Station, I helped them with the purchase. The guests had a strong interest in Japanese history and culture, so they listened attentively to my explanations and asked many questions.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShimbashi～Asakusa220JPY
    Section 2SubwayAsakusa～Ueno180JPY
    Section 3TrainUeno～Tokyo170JPY
    Total570JPY

    Tour Report by Takako

    Hello!! I’m Takako. Thank you for seeing my page. I’ve been showing guests around Tokyo, Yokohama and Kamakura for over six years. There are various things from historic sites, shrines and temples to cultural spots, good restaurants and anime shops in Japan.
    I love watching sumo wrestling, Japanese traditional sport.
    My favorite place is Tsukiji food market. It’s really exciting and you can enjoy a variety of delicious foods.
    I also like visiting Japanese gardens such as Hama-rikyu Gardens and Rikugien Gardens.
    Please let me know what interests you.
    I would be happy to make a suitable tour for you and help you stay in Japan comfortably.
    Looking forward to meeting you!!

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    Jul 21, 2026
    Z222TCshannonr
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    6 hour guided tour of Tokyo
    Our wonderful guide,…

    Jul 9, 2026
    cronima2
    Perfectly guided day
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had an amazing day with…

    Jul 3, 2026
    johnoD792VT
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Lovely Guide!
    Takako was an amazing guide! She gave strong insights on…

    Jul 3, 2026
    71nidhim
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo Tour
    Takako was extremely knowledgeable and showed us all the main…