Category: Uncategorized

  • Hokkaido in Half a Day: 1130 Travel & Okurayama Ski Jump Stadium

    Hokkaido in Half a Day: 1130 Travel & Okurayama Ski Jump Stadium

    Sapporo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    February, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:20　Meet (guest arrives late), tour starts
    • 11:20-1130　Travel
    • 11:30-1145　Former Hokkaido Government Office building
    • 11:45-11:55　Travel (on foot)
    • 11-55-12:30　Clock Tower
    • 12:30-12-50　Travel (on foot, including photos at Odori Park)
    • 12:50-13:50　Nijo Market
    • 13:50-14:30　Travel (subway, bus, taxi)
    • 14:30-15:00　Okurayama Ski Jump Stadium
    • 15:00-15:40 　Travel (bus, subway, on foot)
    • 15:40-16:00　Sweets time at Sapporo Station & advice on nighttime sightseeing
    • 16:00　Farewell

    Title: What's a Private Half-Day Walking Tour of Sapporo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guest said they love Japan and were visiting Sapporo for the first time. They showed great interest in the history of Hokkaido's pioneer development and in the story of the Ainu people. They also bought fresh sea urchin and crab and enjoyed them right there on the spot. They even treated me as well, and were a very kind person. They took photos and videos in many places, making the most of the limited time available. The guest had a wonderful personality, and I was able to work with great enjoyment myself. The lift at the Okurayama Ski Jump Stadium was suspended for inspection, which I felt very sorry about for the guest. When I checked online the day before, no such information was available. Instead, I saw the guest off at Sapporo Station, ending the tour after four and a half hours.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayBus Center-mae～Maruyama Park250JPY
    Section 2BusMaruyama Bus Terminal～Okurayama Ski Jump Stadium250JPY
    Section 3BusOkurayama Ski Jump Stadium～Maruyama Bus Terminal250JPY
    Section 4SubwayMaruyama Park～Sapporo250JPY
    Total1,000JPY

    Tour Report by Nori

    With a big smile and most friendly character, Nori will surely make your trip a special and unforgettable one! Having fifteen years of carrier as a tour guide interpreter, she is one of the most experienced guides listed. She will provide interesting and insightful comments and information on Japanese history, culture, issues, and practices, using an appropriate humor at times. She can give you an advice on what to shop and what to eat as well. We are very proud that she’s never received any complaints from our customers, nor has she ever had her guests get lost.

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    Feb 27, 2025
    Maa1441
    A memorable trip to Sapporo!
    Tripadvisor review: Sapporo 4hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    My experience in Sapporo was rather…

  • Tokyo Customized Tour & Tea Ceremony

    Tokyo Customized Tour & Tea Ceremony

    Tokyo Customized Tour & Tea Ceremony with Licensed Guide

    February, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 09:55 Meet up @Hotel
    • 2. 10:00 Travel∶Subway
    • 3. 10:30 Stay @Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 4. 11:50 Travel∶Subway
    • 5. 12:00 Nezu Shrine
    • 6. 12:50 Travel∶Subway
    • 7. 13:20 Lunch @Sushizanmai Asakusa Kaminarimon Branch
    • 8. 14:15 Stay @Sensoji Temple
    • 9. 14:50 Stay @Jidaiya (Tea Ceremony Experience)
    • 10. 16:10 Disband @Tokyo Metro Asakusa Station

    Title: What's a Private Family Tour of Tokyo Like from Asakusa to Nezu Shrine? A Licensed Guide's Report The accommodation was a little far from the station. Kayabacho Station also seemed to be within walking distance, but considering the possibility that the guests might want to return from Kuramae Station to the Hotel without transferring, [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) began the tour from Monzen-Nakacho Station. In addition to Senso-ji Temple, I chose the East Gardens and Nezu Shrine as places to visit. If there had been time, I had also thought of guiding the group briefly around Yanaka, but since the guests liked to take their time and explore each spot leisurely, we headed to Asakusa right after visiting Nezu Shrine. Lunch in Asakusa also took more time than expected, so at Senso-ji Temple I limited the tour to the area around Nakamise Street. Since the tea house could not have a guide present unless it was a private booking, we arranged to meet again at the same place one hour later, at 16:00. As some of the guests were big fans of Japanese culture, including matcha, the tea experience was very well received. For the guests who wished to continue exploring Asakusa after the tour, I took them to the entrance of Asakusa Station and had them confirm the location before we parted ways.

    Click here for more details: Tokyo Customized Tour & Tea Ceremony with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassMonzen-nakacho Station～Otemachi Station600JPY
    Section 2Free PassOtemachi Station～Nezu Station0JPY
    Section 3Free PassNezu Station～Asakusa Station0JPY
    Total600JPY

    Tour Report by Sam

    Hi. My name is Masafumi Miyazaki. Please call me “Sam”. I am a government-licensed guide.
    I was born in Tokyo and was raised in the suburbs of Tokyo called Tama area. When I was in university, I majored in western dramas, so I am good at playing like an actor.
    I like reading, listening to the music, and walking. I belong to several walking clubs, and sometimes I guide the members around Tokyo.
    One of my strengths as a guide is that I know well about kombu, Japanese kelps. In December every year, I work at a traditional kombu shop in Tsukiji Fish Market. At that shop, I learned a lot of things related to kombu or other ingredients for washoku. I can explain the different characteristics of them to you.
    Also, I am familiar with Japanese flowers and plants. If you stroll around a Japanese garden with me, I am sure you will be able to enjoy beautiful flowers and unique plants in every season.
    I look forward to meeting you. Thank you.

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    Jul 21, 2026
    G848SWmaribelm
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Tour of Tokyo sights was great!
    The tour experience…

    Jul 16, 2026
    Cezary P
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour of Tokyo!
    Sam, was outstanding! Showed…

    Jul 9, 2026
    Michael_C
    Tokyo tour
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour with a wonderful guide -…

    Jun 18, 2026
    David_W
    Viator review: Tokyo Tsukiji Food & Culture 4hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Fish Market Tour
    Great tour. Got to see…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Tsukiji Outer Market & Takeshita Street

    Tokyo in One Day: Tsukiji Outer Market & Takeshita Street

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    February, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:30 Meet up @ Four Seasons at Otemachi
    • 11:00 Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 12:15 Asakusa (Kaminarimon ~ Nakamise ~ Sensoji Temple ~ Hoppy Street)
    • 12:45 Cafe @ Kaminari Issa
    • 14:00 Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 15:30 Meiji Shrine
    • 16:15 Takeshita Street
    • 17:15 Disband @ Four Seasons at Otemachi

    Title: What's a Standard Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America, arriving in Tokyo as the very first stop on a round-the-world trip and visiting Japan for the first time. It was my first time guiding guests from this region. Since they left the itinerary entirely up to me, I chose the most standard route. Due to a flight delay, they arrived early in the morning on the day of the tour. Although they were tired, they walked a great deal without complaint. At the Tsukiji Outer Market, they purchased ceramics and a matcha set. Because the temperature was high today, they enjoyed shaved ice at Kaminari Issa where we stopped for a break. The guests were knowledgeable about Japan's "Lost 30 Years," and I shared my own views on its causes. They were also aware of the difficult situation facing Nissan. At the Imperial Palace (former Edo Castle), I explained Japan's feudal system. Although we ran over time, I took them to Takeshita Street so they could feel the contrast with Meiji Shrine.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayAsakusa Line Higashi-ginza～Asakusa Line Asakusa220JPY
    Section 2SubwayGinza Line Asakusa～Tozai Line Otemachi178JPY
    Section 3SubwayChiyoda Line Otemachi～Chiyoda Line Meiji-jingumae209JPY
    Section 4SubwayChiyoda Line Meiji-jingumae～Chiyoda Line Otemachi209JPY
    Total816JPY

    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…

  • Hyogo in Half a Day: Hakutsuru Sake Museum & Chinatown

    Hyogo in Half a Day: Hakutsuru Sake Museum & Chinatown

    Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    February, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30　Meet at Port Terminal
    • 10:30 Hakutsuru Sake Museum
    • 12:15 Ikuta Shrine
    • 13:00 Chinatown
    • 13:30 Tour ends

    Title: What's a 4-Hour Private Walking Tour of Kobe Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America joining a 4-hour private tour of Kobe, which they had been looking forward to as their first visit to the city. For this tour, they had requested a sake brewery, Ikuta Shrine, Chinatown, and Harborland. At the meeting point, I explained that it would be difficult to guide them to all of these places within 4 hours, and they kindly understood. At the Hakutsuru Sake Museum, they watched the sake-making process with great interest and remarked that it was almost like art. After a tasting, they purchased a brewery-limited sake and cosmetics. At Ikuta Shrine, they were surprised by its long history. I helped them with information about the shuttle bus stop and with making a reservation for a Kobe beef lunch, then guided them through Chinatown, which brought the tour to a close. Before saying goodbye, I shared directions and recommendations for Harborland, which we had not been able to visit during the tour.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainPort Terminal～Sannomiya210JPY
    Section 2TrainKobe Sannomiya～Sumiyoshi200JPY
    Section 3TrainSumiyoshi～Kobe Sannomiya200JPY
    Total610JPY

    Tour Report by Mizu

    Hello, my name is Mizuho Yoshikawa. Please call me Mizu and my name means rice and water in Japanese.
    I’ve been a tour guide more than 200 times since the spring of 2023 in Kobe, Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, Wakayama and Kochi. My tour is always original and new, depending on the guest’s preferences, encounters, seasons and weather.
    In Kyoto, one of my tours is to climb Mt. Kurama. It is about 1 hour from the city of Kyoto by train, it is a very quiet and beautiful mountain.
    In Osaka, which is called the kitchen of Japan, I am also in charge of food tour.
    In Nara, in addition to the Great Budda Hall, I guide guests to the temple with a really great view and Japanese wine, sake tasting.
    Every city has a unique charming point.
    The motto of my guiding is ” Ichigo Ichie” Once in a lifetime or seize the day. I learn this concept that the moment will never be the same again through tea ceremonies.
    I like a tea ceremony that is part of the traditional Japanese culture and embodies the spirit of “omotenashi” or hospitality. Through the tea ceremony, we can feel the spirit of “omotenashi” that has been passed down to us from ancient times.
    And I like to travel abroad and domestically, and I have been to 13 overseas countries and most of the prefectures in Japan. Traveling always gives me a new perspective, which is exciting and thrilling. Nowadays, we can learn a lot from the Internet, but traveling teaches us that it is important to have direct experience. When I travel, I feel that my five senses are infinitely expanded, and through my tour, I help all guests to have the same feeling in Japan.
    I was born and raised in Kanagawa Prefecture, which is next to Tokyo Prefecture in eastern Japan. When I was little, I could see Mount Fuji from my backyard. There was also a rice field nearby, and I grew up listening to the croaking of frogs. Listening to the frogs and seeing the mountains made me feel very calm.
    I moved to the city of Kobe, one of the Kansai areas in western Japan, which includes Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, and so on. I’m not from the Kansai area of western Japan, but I think that makes me sensitive to the differences between that area and the Kanto area, Tokyo, where I grew up.
    Speaking of Kobe, you might be thinking of Kobe beef. Of course you do. There are also other sake breweries in Nada in Kobe. You can also go from Kobe city to Himeji Castle, also known as the White Egret Castle, which was the first in Japan to be listed as a World Heritage Site in 1993.
    Let’s meet and enjoy Japan together!

    Request Booking

    Jul 27, 2026
    OscarBrisenoJr
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Awesome tour of Kyoto
    Seeing the temples and shrines…

    Jul 21, 2026
    MarcL3556
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    A Wonderful and Memorable Tour of Osaka with Mizu…

    Jul 8, 2026
    Ranvt
    Local tour kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    I had a great experience on this local…

    Jun 11, 2026
    MamaL843
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Amazing Kyoto with Mizu
    Mizu-San gave us an AMAZING tour of Kyoto.…

  • Kyoto: Fushimi Inari Taisha & Sagano Bamboo Grove

    Kyoto: Fushimi Inari Taisha & Sagano Bamboo Grove

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    February, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:30 Meet Hyatt Regency Kyoto
    • 08:50 to 09:45 Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 10:05 to 11:00 Kiyomizu-dera
    • 11:30 to 12:20 Nijo Castle
    • 12:50 to 13:45 Kinkaku-ji
    • 14:15 to 15:00 Sagano Bamboo Grove
    • 15:30 Dismissal Nishiki Market

    Title: What Can You See in Kyoto on a One-Day Private Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group from North America who joined together in Japan for the tour. Since the group had only one day in Kyoto and were returning home the following day, they said they very much wanted to visit the five spots on their list, so I extended the tour by one hour to guide them through all of them. [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) provided this private one-day tour of Kyoto. After the tour ended, the guests planned to visit a ninja and samurai museum, where they would put on ninja costumes and enjoy throwing shuriken.

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

    Tour Report by Haru

    Personal data
    Born in : May 1st, 1957
    Hobby : Visiting scenic places,
    historic spots, Japanese
    gardens and old townscape
    Former career : Worked for electric
    company and engaged in
    international sales for
    about 40 years.
    Travel history in the former career :
    Visited about 20 countries about 200 times

    Career as guide interpreter
    Acquisition of guide license : 2016
    Career of guide : 8 years
    Genre of my specialty :
    Japanese historic structures such as
    temple, shrine, castle and garden.
    Area of guide : Kyoto, Nara, Osaka &
    Himeji

    Let’s enjoy Japan with me !!

    Request Booking

    Dec 30, 2024
    shannono1010
    Haru is a Rock Star
    Viator review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Haru was a fantastic guide. He explained…

    Dec 29, 2024
    Ali O
    Amazing!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Haru was amazing on our tour of Nara. He was…

    Dec 4, 2024
    D5658ZEjohnr
    Trip to some of the Kyoto sites on our visit to Japan.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Full-Day Private Tour (Osaka departure) with…

    Dec 3, 2024
    Charlie_Jane00
    Kyoto Tour
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Haru was a well organised and very informative guide. He…

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    February, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 9:00 Hotel
    • 2. 9:30 Meiji Shrine
    • 3. 11:10 Imperial Palace Nijubashi Bridge, Sakuradamon Gate
    • 4. 11:40 Ginza Kimuraya, Mitsukoshi
    • 5. 12:20 Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center, Sensoji Temple
    • 6. 13:00 Dismissal @ Sensoji Temple

    What Is a Private Tokyo Walking Tour Like, Including Ginza and Asakusa? A Licensed Guide's Report I guided a group visiting from Europe. In addition to the three places they requested, we added Ginza along the way and stopped at a bakery. Since the guests wanted to eat the bread they had bought somewhere, we sat on the benches at the observation deck of the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center to enjoy it. It was a first-time experience for me, but it turned out quite nicely. The temperature reached a high of 17 degrees, which was unusually warm, and the guests were surprised, having been skiing in Nagano until the previous day. They were very friendly and listened enthusiastically to stories about shrines and temples, asking many questions. The accented English was a little difficult to catch at times, but I listened carefully and we were able to enjoy a pleasant conversation.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinjuku～Harajuku150JPY
    Section 2SubwayMeiji-jingumae～Nijubashimae210JPY
    Section 3SubwaySakuradamon～Ginza-itchome180JPY
    Section 4SubwayGinza～Asakusa210JPY
    Total750JPY

    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!!

    Request Booking

    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…

  • Tokyo in One Day: IMPERIAL PALACE & TOKYO TOWER

    Tokyo in One Day: IMPERIAL PALACE & TOKYO TOWER

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    February, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 15:30 Meet at Haneda Airport Terminal 3
    • 16:45 1. THE IMPERIAL PALACE
    • 18:00　2. Tokyo Station
    • 19:15 3. SENSO-JI TEMPLE
    • 20:30 4. TOKYO TOWER
    • 21:30 See off at Daimon Station

    Title: What Is a Private Layover Tour from Haneda Airport Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Meeting guests at Haneda Airport Terminal 3 remains a challenging task. It was 30 minutes after the flight's arrival that we were finally able to meet, only after exchanging phone calls. Although I had emailed the [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) waiting board as a PDF in advance, the guests, as on a previous occasion, passed through the Arrival Exit without recognizing it at all. They did mention that they thought they had caught a glimpse of it for a moment. The booking was made through a travel agency, and it seems the [Japan Guide Agency](https://www.j-g-a.org/) name was not familiar to them. I believe some improvement in this area is needed. Since the guests were on a layover, we made sure to arrange all transportation for the day at Haneda Airport before departing. At the Keikyu counter in the arrival lobby, they used a credit card to purchase a Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway one-day pass, along with round-trip Keikyu tickets between the airport and Sengakuji for 330 yen each. I also let them know that no further transportation costs would be incurred during the day's movements. The guests were a pleasant group who enjoyed exchanging jokes, and they also showed a keen interest in culture and history, which made for a lively and enjoyable tour full of conversation. On the way back, I would normally have escorted them all the way to Haneda Airport, but because our departure had been delayed and the timing could not be adjusted, I saw them off after they boarded an express train on the Toei Asakusa Line that runs directly to Haneda Airport.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHaneda Airport Terminal 3～Hibiya330JPY
    Section 2Free PassSengakuji～Hibiya900JPY
    Section 3Free PassTokyo～Asakusa – Daimon0JPY
    Total1,230JPY

    Tour Report by Masa

    Welcome to Japan. I hope you are going to enjoy your stay.

    Who am I?
    I am a Licensed Guide Interpreter at an age of 61.
    I got an early retirement from 36 yrs of the employment in a Japanese financial sector.
    I hope I can attend to you with the Japanese politeness, hospitality and smile.

    What can I be expected?
    I would like to introduce the photogenic sites, the indigenous experiences
    and good Japanese local food around Tokyo, Hakone/Mt Fuji.
    I might be able to show you the features of shrine and temple with a religious manner if you’d like.
    As a matter of fact, I don’t have a specific religion to believe, though.
    I love Japan and that’s why I started a new career as a guide.

    What do I love?
    Most of all, my family. I have a wife 56 yrs old, a son 28 yrs old and a daughter 25 yrs old.
    I like eating raw fish and sushi, buckwheat noodles and curry rice.

    How do I spend my spear time?
    I run for 5 km in the morning listening to my favorite music.
    I might have a chance to go to a studio program in the fitness club nearby once a week.

    I look forward to meeting you soon.
    Thank you.

    Request Booking

    Jul 21, 2026
    Sandra_U
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Great Individualized Tour!
    Our tour guide, Masa, was wonderful. The tour…

    Apr 3, 2026
    Celal_S
    Viator review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a great tour even…
    We had a great tour even…

    Mar 30, 2026
    Johanna H
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Early Morning Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    6 hour Guided Tour of Tokyo
    We booked the 6…

    Mar 26, 2026
    Chica717
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Amazing private tour with Masa!
    We had the absolute pleasure of spending…

  • Tokyo: Hamarikyu Gardens & Shibuya Scramble Crossing

    Tokyo: Hamarikyu Gardens & Shibuya Scramble Crossing

    Tokyo Local Shopping Streets Tour with Licensed Guide

    February, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 13:00 Meet @ Hotel
    • 13:30 Hamarikyu Gardens
    • 14:50 Departure
    • 15:10 Meiji Jingumae
    • First Torii Gate
    • 15:30 Takeshita Street, Withharajuku, Harakado
    • 17:05 Departure
    • 17:15 Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • Shibuchika
    • 17:45 Departure
    • 18:30 Dismissal @ Hotel

    What Is a Private Car Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a family visiting Japan from North America, and this was a tour with a private car. At Hamarikyu Gardens, the guests enjoyed matcha and sweets while taking in the view of the garden. On the way to Harajuku, we passed through Roppongi, the expressway, and Aoyama, so I was able to talk about the different areas and Tokyo's postwar development, offering a perspective different from what you would get by train. The guests listened with great interest and asked many questions. At Meiji Shrine, I focused only on explaining the torii gate and Shinto. Since carrying the baby for a long time seemed tiring, after a crepe break in Harajuku I suggested a diaper change, and the timing worked out well for a change of who was holding the baby. Afterward, as the guests were tired from starting the tour early in the morning, they mentioned wanting to wrap up a little earlier. In the underground shopping area of Shibuya, they bought some sweets and yakitori, got into the car, and headed home. It was a calm and pleasant family throughout, which made me feel happy as well. Overall, I believe they enjoyed the tour very much.

    Click here for more details: Tokyo Local Shopping Streets Tour with Licensed Guide

    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: Nara Station & Kyoto Station

    Kyoto: Nara Station & Kyoto Station

    Nara Day Trip from Kyoto: Customized Tour, Licensed Guide

    February, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Meet at Kyoto Station
    • 8:45 Board rapid train to Nara
    • 9:40 Arrive at Nara Station
    • 10:00 Nara Park
    • 10:15 Todai-ji Temple
    • 11:45 Lunch (Tonkatsu)
    • 12:45 Kasuga Taisha Shrine
    • 14:00 Naramachi
    • 15:00 Shopping
    • 15:37 Board rapid train to Kyoto
    • 16:23 Arrive at Kyoto Station
    • 16:30 Tour ends

    Title: What Is a Private Nara Day Tour Like for First-Time Visitors to Japan? A Licensed Guide's Report Body: The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from Africa, where French is commonly used in daily life. They seemed to understand my explanations for the most part, but were not very comfortable speaking in English, and had relatively few questions. The guests did very little shopping, with one exception. When I introduced them to a 100-yen shop, they found it novel and each made a few small purchases. I suggested a sake tasting in Naramachi, but the group did not seem to care much for alcohol. For feeding the deer, they bought one bundle of crackers and shared it among themselves. It was a Wednesday, so the "Nigiwai no Ie" in Naramachi was closed, the Koshi-no-Ie (lattice house) was under renovation, and many shops were shut. The photo was taken at Kasuga Taisha Shrine.

    Click here for more details: Nara Day Trip from Kyoto: Customized Tour, Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto～Nara720JPY
    Section 2Free PassJR Nara Station～JR Nara Station600JPY
    Section 3TrainNara～Kyoto720JPY
    Total2,040JPY

    Tour Report by KAZU

    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.

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    Jul 24, 2026
    Trail65429092687
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto Tour
    Kazua Sumi is a very accomplished guide.He has deep…

    Jul 23, 2026
    489caelinp
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto Guided Tour
    My friend and I had a great experience…

    Jul 16, 2026
    margaretsM7923ON
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Great way to see Kyoto
    Wonderful tour and exceptional guide.

    Jul 9, 2026
    Sandra_B
    Kazuo was great and…
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Kazuo was great and provided…

  • Kyoto Early Morning Customized Tour

    Kyoto Early Morning Customized Tour

    Kyoto Early Morning Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    February, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 6:30 Meet at Hotel Kadensho lobby→ City Bus→Kyoto Station→7:04 Depart JR Kyoto Station→7:10 Arrive Inari Station→Fushimi Inari Taisha→8:00 Depart Keihan Fushimi Inari Station→8:09 Arrive Gion-Shijo Station→On foot→Nishiki Market→8:30 Breakfast @Nishiki Hirano→On foot→Bus→9:15 Arrive Gion→On foot→Hanamikoji→Kennin-ji Garden→Koshin-do→Yasaka Pagoda→Ishibei-koji→9:50 Yasaka Shrine→On foot→Bus→Arrive Okazaki Shrine→10:10 Okazaki Shrine→10:30 Taxi to hotel (tour ends)

    Meeting point: Hotel We confirmed their wishes in advance and carried out the tour as scheduled. The guests were a group, both physically fit, and since transfers on public transportation went smoothly, we were able to proceed almost perfectly on time without any delays. The guests keep a pet rabbit and had requested to visit Okazaki Shrine, which is associated with rabbits, so I set it as the final destination of the tour. They took many photos and purchased charms and figurines, and appeared very satisfied. Since one of the guests had a dietary preference and another was very fond of rice, I chose a place at Nishiki Market where they could have a Japanese-style breakfast, and this was also very well received.

    Click here for more details: Kyoto Early Morning Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusUmekoji Park・JR Umekoji-Kyotonishi Station～Kyoto Station230JPY
    Section 2TrainKyoto～Inari150JPY
    Section 3TrainFushimi Inari～Gion-Shijo220JPY
    Section 4BusShijo-Takakura～Gion230JPY
    Section 5BusGion～Okazaki Shrine230JPY
    Total1,060JPY

    Tour Report by Nabet

    “He was easy to talk to, friendly, and knowledgeable and even made sure we successfully navigated the public transit back to our hotel. If we are ever back in Kyoto, we’d love to book a tour with him again! ”

    “At every side we got an indepth explanation to any minor detail and every question we asked was answered and explained really well. It felt like a relaxing and wholesome walk through Kyoto even while it was pouring rain. We can absolutely recommend choosing Nabet!”

    “Nabet’s English is just perfect, he knows the way around sights, little streets and hidden secrets, he is very authentic…just a perfect tour!”

    Here are just a few of the many kind reviews I’ve received from the more than 100 groups I’ve guided through Kyoto and other cities.

    I’m deeply thankful for the chance to connect with my guests and contribute to a memorable tour experience!

    +Current Occupation+
    • Associate Professor specially appointed for Entrepreneurship Education and University-Based Startup Support
    • Management Consultant for SMEs and startups
    • Government-Licensed Interpreter Guide

    +Hobbies+
    Travel, music, sake, ice hockey, squash, watching soccer

    Request Booking

    May 29, 2026
    Tamara M
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kyoto bei Nacht – faszinierende Einblicke in Kultur und Spiritualität
    Ich…

    Oct 21, 2025
    Jana_C
    4-hour private tour with Nabet was ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
    Viator review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had an amazing experience…

    Oct 16, 2025
    987kayeh
    Knowledgeable guide who was will to respond to our multiple questions
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Thankyou…

    Oct 16, 2025
    janiec555
    Significant sites in Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Nabet is an excellent guide. He explained Japanese…