Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa & Chidorigafuchi

    Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa & Chidorigafuchi

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:00 Hotel
    • 08:30 Asakusa (Nakamise Street, Senso-ji Temple, Sumida Park)
    • 09:30 Ueno (Ueno Park)
    • 10:30 Shibuya (Shibuya Crossing, Hachiko)
    • 11:00 Meiji Shrine
    • 12:00 Metropolitan Government Building Observatory
    • 13:00 Chidorigafuchi
    • 14:00 Disband at Ginza

    What Is a Private Cherry Blossom Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guest was visiting Japan from the Middle East, and had experience as a tour guide. They had decided that their first visit to Japan should be during cherry blossom season, so despite the rain, we changed the itinerary that same morning to focus on cherry blossoms. The guest took many photographs at three locations: Sumida Park, Ueno Park, and Chidorigafuchi. Because the itinerary changed significantly and differed from the route I had researched in advance, much of the time while moving was spent confirming the most efficient routes. At Sensoji Temple, the guest drew an omikuji fortune stick whose number happened to match their own, which delighted them greatly. As for the fortune itself, they said they would read it after returning to their hotel.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayDaimon~Asakusa220JPY
    Section 2SubwayAsakusa~Ueno180JPY
    Section 3SubwayUeno~Shibuya210JPY
    Section 4TrainShibuya~Harajuku150JPY
    Section 5SubwayYoyogi~Tochomae180JPY
    Section 6SubwayShinjuku~Kudanshita220JPY
    Section 7SubwayKudanshita~Ginza180JPY
    Total1,340JPY

    Hi I am Hiroaki. I am pleased if I could help you to have a good and memorable experience here in Japan.
    I started as a guide in 2017 after retiring. My expertise is outdoor/town walking tour as well as universal tourism.
    If you like, I might show you a lively ordinal local life during the tour.
    I love tourism. I visited all 47 domestic prefectures in Japan and all 50 states in US. I like long journey like walking/biking historical/pilgrimage routes, and love sports especially rugby, triathlon.
    I would like to make your tour as much as customized according to your preference. So the information about spots you want to visit, things you want to do is very helpful for me to prepare plan some options of the day.
    Do not hesitate contact me via email.

    Mar 22, 2025
    Tracy_L
    Special Day in Tokyo with Hiroaki!
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Wonderful day with Hiroaki! He tailored…

  • Hiroshima: Atomic Bomb Dome & Itsukaichi Station

    Hiroshima: Atomic Bomb Dome & Itsukaichi Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 13:00 Meet at Itsukaichi Port
    • 13:00 Move to the Atomic Bomb Dome
    • 13:30 Peace Park, Peace Memorial Museum, Hondori, Hiroshima Castle, Shukkeien Garden
    • 16:45 Move to Hiroshima Station
    • 17:10 Move to Itsukaichi Station
    • 17:30 Disband at the shuttle bus stop at the south exit of Itsukaichi Station

    Title: What's a Private Hiroshima Shore Excursion Like from a Cruise Ship Port? A Licensed Guide's Report In response to a request to be picked up at the ferry pier, I applied in advance to the Hiroshima Prefectural Government and prepared an entry pass. On the day, since the meeting time was before the shuttle bus service had started, I took a taxi to the pier. Thanks to the ship docking a little early, the tour was able to start on schedule, which was a relief. Although the guests had requested to skip the museum and to visit only one of the memorial monuments, in the end they enthusiastically explored both, which was both surprising and delightful. The schedule was tight, but they also enjoyed visiting Hiroshima Castle and Shukkeien Garden. They mentioned that they were happy to walk. It was a new discovery for me that some cruise ship passengers actually prefer walking.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHiroshima Station~Itsukaichi Station240JPY
    Total240JPY

    Hi, nice to meet you! I am Emmy. I am so honored and happy to be your guide.
    I had been teaching at a local university in Hiroshima. After I got retired in March 2023, I started guiding. I was born and raised in Hiroshima. I love communicating with people all over the world more than anything, so I have been involved in home visit, homestay, volunteer guide for people from foreign countries.
    I always hope that our guests will take away lots of positive energy from Hiroshima, a city that was resilient and revived like a phoenix, in spite of its sad history.
    While realizing customers’ wishes, I will introduce you the beauty of Hiroshima, Miyajima and so on, which are tranquil and peaceful places with a unique charm that cannot be found in big cities.
    I am happy to answer any questions about things Japanese.
    I look forward to meeting you in person soon!!

    Jul 3, 2026
    715rachnak
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Such a great experience in Hiroshima and Miyajima!
    We…

    Jul 2, 2026
    Janine_P
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Worth the money!
    From the moment we booked our…

    May 7, 2026
    Diane_F
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Wonderful tour and guide
    Our tour guide Emmy was…

    Apr 12, 2026
    Curious613511
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    We did a 4 hour walking tour through Hiroshima where…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • Hotel 9:00 — Asakusa 9:40 Sensoji Temple・Sumida Park — Ueno 11:20 Lunch — Nippori 12:10 Yanaka stroll: Yanaka Ginza, Yanaka Cemetery, around Ueno Sakuragi, Yoshida-ya Liquor Store — Ueno Park 13:40 Toshogu Shrine, Ueno Great Buddha, Shinobazu Pond, Kiyomizu Kannon-do Temple, etc. — 15:00 Dismissal

    Title: What's a Private Cherry Blossom Walking Tour of Asakusa and Ueno in Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. One of them was visiting Japan for the second time, while the others were coming for the first time, and they had been very much looking forward to it. The tour had originally been scheduled for the previous day, but because heavy rain was expected, it was postponed to today. Today it was raining during our visit to Senso-ji Temple, but the rain eased to a light drizzle by the time we reached Sumida Park, which was fortunate. I offered various quizzes along the way, and the guests answered many of them correctly. They also asked many questions about history and religion. The cherry blossoms were still in bloom, which was a great help, and the guests took many photos. After we parted at Ueno, they planned to join a food tour in Akihabara. I said goodbye to them wishing them many wonderful memories.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayTameike-Sanno~Asakusa210JPY
    Section 2SubwayAsakusa~Ueno180JPY
    Section 3TrainUeno~Nippori150JPY
    Total540JPY

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

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

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

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

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

  • Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa & Imperial Palace East Gardens

    Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa & Imperial Palace East Gardens

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Meet at Intercontinental Tokyo Bay
    • 9:30 Asakusa (Skytree photo)
    • 12:00 Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 13:15 Lunch at Inataya Marunouchi Palace Building Branch
    • 14:20 Shibuya Hachiko, Scramble Crossing
    • 14:35 Disband at Shibuya Scramble Crossing

    Title: What Can You See on a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report The itinerary was not discussed much in advance and was finalized on the morning of the tour. [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) planned the route as follows: Hotel > Asakusa > the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace > Meiji Shrine > Takeshita Street > ending in either Harajuku or Shibuya. We started by first purchasing 24-hour passes for foreign visitors at Shinbashi. It rained in the morning, but at Asakusa the guests took a great many photos and enjoyed stopping by the shops. Around the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace the rain stopped, and here too they took many photos and had photos taken of them, enjoying the many cherry blossoms, camellias, and other plants and gardens. Since they wanted to have lunch, I guided them to a soba restaurant in the basement of a hotel, where we spent quite some time. After discussing options, we decided to finish by seeing the Hachiko statue and the scramble crossing in Shibuya. They seemed quite satisfied, and gave a generous tip at the end of the tour.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainTakeshiba~Shimbashi189JPY
    Section 2TrainShimbashi~Asakusa700JPY
    Section 3TrainAsakusa~Takebashi0JPY
    Section 4TrainOtemachi~Shibuya0JPY
    Total889JPY

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

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

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

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

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

  • Tokyo in One Day: Yanaka Cemetery & Kappabashi Kitchen Town

    Tokyo in One Day: Yanaka Cemetery & Kappabashi Kitchen Town

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet up @ Tsukuba Express, Yodobashi Akiba Exit
    • 10:05 Yodobashi Camera ~ Akihabara West Exit
    • 11:00 Yanaka Ginza ~ Break @ Yanaka Cafe Yanaka Ginza ~ Hebi-michi ~ Nezu Shrine
    • 13:30 Lunch @ Hachidaime Denzaemon Meshiya
    • 14:15 Yanaka Cemetery
    • 14:45 Ueno Park
    • 15:45 Kappabashi Kitchen Town
    • 16:30 Disband @ Hotel b Asakusa

    Title: What's a Private Day Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Yanaka, Nezu Shrine, and Ueno Park The guests were visitors from North America on their first trip to Japan, spending the day separately from their group on a private tour arranged through [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/). After meeting up, we confirmed the itinerary we had agreed on in advance. At Yodobashi Camera, one of the guests was excited by the hobby section on the sixth floor, while the loud music was a bit overwhelming for the other. Of all the guests I have taken to Yanaka, this group explored the area the most thoroughly. At Nezu Shrine, the azalea buds were beginning to swell, and one of the guests said they would like to return. For lunch, I confirmed whether a gluten-free option could be provided, and we dined at a renovated traditional old house-style restaurant, where the guests enjoyed the atmosphere (photo). We had originally planned to see cherry blossoms at Shinjuku Gyoen, but since we were running short on time and the Somei-Yoshino cherry trees there are on the lawn where the ground is uneven, we decided to go to Ueno Park instead, and added Kappabashi to the itinerary. The weather was not ideal today either, and the guests found it cold.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainJR Akihabara~JR Nippori167JPY
    Section 2TrainJR Nippori~JR Ueno146JPY
    Section 3SubwayGinza Line Ueno~Ginza Line Tawaramachi178JPY
    Total491JPY

    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, Ireland, Norway, Sweden, Romania, Slovenia, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, India, Hong Kong, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Brazil, Argentina, Columbia, Thailand, Malaysia, the Philippines, Laos, Turkey, Jordan, Kenya and Israel.
    When guiding, I always keep in mind to go beyond what guests can find on social media or ChatGPT. I believe my professional background allows me to offer unique insights, and I am encouraged when guests mention this in their reviews

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

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

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

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

  • Osaka in One Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine & Nijo Castle

    Osaka in One Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine & Nijo Castle

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Hotel Osaka meeting point
    • 9:45 Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 11:10 Yasaka Pagoda – Yasaka Koshin-do – Yasui Konpira-gu Shrine
    • 12:00 Gion Hanamikoji
    • 13:40 Lunch at Katsukura Sanjo Main Store
    • 14:40 Kiyamachi Street cherry blossom trees
    • 15:15 Nijo Castle
    • 17:00 Suiran, a Hotel, Kyoto – dismissal

    What Is a Private One-Day Cherry Blossom Tour of Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guests were visitors from North America. Fushimi Inari Taisha was not very crowded, so we were able to enjoy it at a relaxed pace. Yasaka Pagoda, Yasui Konpiragu Shrine, and Hanamikoji Street in Gion were also not very crowded, so we could take our time. The guests were delighted with lunch, saying that the tonkatsu and the matcha tiramisu dessert were the most delicious they had ever eaten. Afterward, they enjoyed the beautiful rows of cherry blossoms along Kiyamachi Street. The final stop, Nijo Castle, was very crowded, so I think the guests may have gotten a little tired, but the cherry blossoms in the garden were beautiful. I believe they were satisfied with the tour.

    Thank you very much for choosing JGA experience, and please allow me to briefly introduce myself. I’m Kaeko Tanigawa, your tour guide, and I have been showing tourists from abroad around mainly in Kyoto, Nara and Osaka areas. Every year I’ve guided my guests through those areas for over 80 times. I always try to do my best to help my guests explore and enjoy our unique and attractive locations, and I’ve been lucky enough to receive so many 5-star reviews from the guests I hosted. I’d like to help make your visit to Japan one of the most wonderful memories in your life. I’m really looking forward to seeing you soon. Thank you very much.

    Jul 25, 2026
    135ulrikh
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Half-day with private guide in Kyoto
    We spent half a day…

    Jul 24, 2026
    J6711TVnancyb
    Tripadvisor review: Japan Guide Agency
    Family Fun Day in Kyoto with young children
    Kaeko Tanigawa was fantastic at helping us create…

    Jul 13, 2026
    elizabethtW414DU
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto Private Tour
    Kaeko was absolutely amazing from start…

    Jul 12, 2026
    johnkE8649IH
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Excellent Kyoto Day Tour
    We had a wonderful experience touring Kyoto…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Asakusa

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Asakusa

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:30 Meet at the hotel
    • 12:00-13:00 Shopping at Korakuen, Koishikawa Korakuen Garden
    • 13:40-14:50 Asakusa (Observation Building 8th floor, Nakamise Street, Sensoji Temple, Hoppy Street, Sumida Park)
    • 15:15-15:30 Exploring the food basement of Ginza Mitsukoshi Department Store
    • 15:30 Disband at Ginza Mitsukoshi

    What Is a Private Tokyo Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Korakuen, Asakusa, and Ginza The guests were visitors from North America. At Korakuen, they bought a baseball cap of a Japanese team they follow, and happily put it on right after buying it. They were also very curious about the cosplayers gathering for an event at the dome. At Koishikawa Korakuen Garden, our conversation about how the garden imitates famous scenic spots in Kyoto naturally led to talk about Kyoto, which they planned to visit. They also enjoyed the cherry blossoms. In Asakusa, they bought strawberry daifuku along Nakamise Street. While sitting and enjoying it, they watched other tourists taking photos in kimono. As a light rain began to fall, we returned to Ginza and explored the food floors of a department store. They were amazed and impressed by the wide variety of food and by the convenience of the underground passageways in the Marunouchi area.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainGinza~Korakuen180JPY
    Section 2TrainIidabashi→Ueno-okachimachi~Ueno-hirokoji→Asakusa290JPY
    Section 3TrainAsakusa~Ginza210JPY
    Total680JPY

    Hi, My name is Komaki.
    I’m a qualified architect and interior designer.
    I’m a national licensed tour guide of Japan based in Tokyo. I took the license in 2024.
    I’m a guide who is in love with both traditional and modern culture. I love walking and taking photographs.

    I have lived in London for two years to study interior design.
    I’ve been living in Tokyo for more than 10 years.
    I am still amazed with the rich and unique culture of Japan.
    I would like to share it with guests to help you brighten up your trip.
    Thank you!
    Instagram: komaki_tour
    https://www.instagram.com/komaki_tour/

    May 21, 2026
    sarocks79
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    4 Hour private tour with Komaki
    5/5 Stars – An absolutely wonderful…

    Apr 20, 2026
    Z9582ULmarcs
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our Private 6 Hr Tokyo Tour w Komaki
    Our experience with Komaki…

    Apr 9, 2026
    mirjamjon
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great start to our first day in Tokyo
    Komaki pick us up…

    Apr 4, 2026
    natep400
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Absolutely fantastic 4-hour city tour with Komaki Kawaguchi!
    Komaki was an outstanding…

  • Tokyo in One Day: guest's request

    Tokyo in One Day: guest’s request

    Tour Itinerary

    • Changed start time from
    • 10:30 to 7:00 at guest's request
    • (1)Meet at hotel(7:00)→(taxi)→
    • (2)Tsukiji Outer Market(7:30-8:15)→(taxi)→Sensoji Temple・Asakusa(8:45-10:00)→(taxi)→Shibuya Scramble Crossing・break(10:30-11:30)→(taxi)→Imperial Palace(12:00-13:00)→(taxi)→hotel(13:30)

    Title: What Is a Private Family Day Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The tour was booked by a group visiting Tokyo. It was a calm and relaxed tour overall. At the Tsukiji Outer Market, many shops were not yet open, so I was a little concerned about whether the guests felt satisfied, but I believe the rest of the tour was fulfilling, covering Senso-ji Temple, the Shibuya Scramble Crossing, and the Imperial Palace. Along the way, near Shibuya Station, the guests wished to attend to some care needs, but many facilities did not open until 11:00, so one point of reflection was that I could not handle this as smoothly as I would have liked. (In the end, however, this need was met.) At the Imperial Palace, a special opening was being held, making it a tour through which I was able to accumulate valuable experience and knowledge as a guide.

    Hi! I’ m Sho. I will do my best as your tour guide in order that you can enjoy staying in Japan. If you travel in Japan with me, you don’t hesitate to ask me many questions about Japan. I will tell you what you want to know as many as possible. I’m good at introducing Entertainment, Meal, Food, Temple and Shrine, History, Sports of Japan. I am especially familiar with Kanto area such as Tokyo, Saitama, Kanagawa, Chiba, Tochigi, Gunma, Ibaraki prefecture. However, additionally, knowledgeable of Hokuriku area such as Niigata, Ishikawa prefecture. I would like to know your requests and live up to your expectation.
    I look forward to seeing you. Thank you!

  • Tokyo in One Day: Daiba Station & Shimbashi Station

    Tokyo in One Day: Daiba Station & Shimbashi Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Meeting place: GRAND NIKKO TOKYO DAIBA
    • 8:10 Depart Daiba Station
    • (Yurikamome)
    • Shimbashi Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 8:30 Arrive Asakusa Station
    • Asakusa Sensoji Temple
    • Asakusa Shrine
    • Nakamise Shopping Street
    • 9:30 Depart Asakusa Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Nihombashi Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Tozai Line)
    • 10:00 Arrive Otemachi Station
    • Tokyo Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • Nijubashi Bridge
    • 11:00 Depart Nijubashimae Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • 11:30 Meiji-jingumae Station
    • Harajuku Meiji Shrine
    • Takeshita Street
    • 12:30 Harajuku Station
    • (JR Yamanote Line)
    • 12:00 Shibuya Station
    • Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • Hachiko Statue
    • Lunch: Hidakaya
    • 13:30 Depart Shibuya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 14:00 Arrive Shimbashi Station
    • (Yurikamome)
    • Depart Daiba Station
    • 14:30 Disband: Daiba Station

    What Is a Rainy-Day Private Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, the Imperial Palace, Harajuku, and Shibuya The guests were a group visiting Japan from Oceania. It was their first time in Japan. They had arrived the previous day at Haneda Airport on a direct flight and taken a taxi to their hotel. Their visit to Japan was for a trip, during which they planned to take a day trip to Mount Fuji the day after next, then travel to Kyoto and Osaka before returning to Tokyo and heading home. The following day, they planned to visit Disneyland. Upon arrival, they were surprised by how cold it was. They mentioned that they loved Japanese food and wanted to try a variety of dishes during their stay in Japan. Unfortunately, the tour took place in very cold and rainy weather. We first headed to Asakusa. After purchasing rain ponchos along the approach, we began our stroll. Despite the rain, it was extremely crowded. I explained about Sensoji Temple and the history from Edo to Tokyo, what a five-story pagoda is, what Buddhism is, and the difference between Buddhism and Shinto. There was a question: "Do all Japanese people believe in Buddhism?" We drew omikuji fortunes (they were disappointed to draw "bad luck"). We then took a leisurely stroll along the Nakamise shopping street. We moved on to the Imperial Palace and strolled through the East Gardens. In the rain, the cherry blossoms were nearly in full bloom, and we took commemorative photos in front of several cherry trees. I explained about the history 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 was a comment that the pine trees were beautiful, and a question about whether the Emperor of Japan holds political power. After this, we moved to Harajuku, first visiting Meiji Shrine. I explained about torii gates and Emperor Meiji, and again about the difference between Buddhism and Shinto. There was also a question: "How many Christians are there in Japan?" We then strolled through the crowded Takeshita Street. We moved on to Shibuya, which was also full of people despite the rain. I explained about the history of Shibuya. We walked across the scramble crossing and took commemorative photos in front of the Hachiko statue. There were questions such as "Why is the scramble crossing so crowded?" and "Are they all locals?" Since they wanted to eat ramen, we had a late lunch at a ramen restaurant. They mentioned that gyoza were a favorite. They commented that the people passing by were so quiet, that there was no litter on the streets, and that there were no homeless people. They also commented that the trains and subways were clean and quiet, with no one chatting, and that the public restrooms were well-equipped and clean. I saw them off at Daiba Station, and we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherDaiba Station~Shimbashi Station325JPY
    Section 2SubwayShimbashi Station~Asakusa Station209JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa Station~Otemachi Station178JPY
    Section 4SubwayNijubashimae Station~Meiji-jingumae Station209JPY
    Section 5TrainHarajuku Station~Shibuya Station146JPY
    Section 6SubwayShibuya Station~Shimbashi Station178JPY
    Section 7OtherShimbashi Station~Daiba Station325JPY
    Total1,570JPY

    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.

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  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 0900 Hotel Shinjuku (5 min from JR Shinjuku Station) Omoide Yokocho Godzilla Road 3D Cat Display
    • 0930 Shinjuku Gyoen (Shinjuku Gate ~ Sendagaya Gate)
    • 1050 Tokyo Station Marunouchi Gyoko-dori Avenue Tatsumi Yagura Turret
    • 1200 Tsukiji Outer Market Lunch at conveyor belt sushi Sushizanmai No. 2 branch Kabukiza Theatre Ginza 4-chome intersection
    • 1300 We had planned to part ways at Ginza Station, but since they said "we want to go to Shibuya," and it was also on my way home, I accompanied them to Shibuya. Hachiko was under construction and couldn't be seen, but we crossed the Scramble Crossing and parted ways. I had already explained the route home by JR.

    Title: What Can You See on a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report on Shinjuku, Tsukiji, and Shibuya The guests were visitors from North America who had arrived in Japan for the first time the previous night. They planned to stay in Tokyo for a few days and then visit Kanazawa and Ishigaki. Since they had arrived late at night and had not seen much of the surroundings, I guided them through Omoide Yokocho, Godzilla Road, and the 3D cat display before heading to Shinjuku Gyoen. Despite unexpectedly low temperatures, strong winds, and rain, the Somei-Yoshino cherry blossoms were about 70% in bloom, and other varieties ranged from already leafed to still in bud, offering great variety. The guests enjoyed taking photos. Since the tour they had booked for the following day also included the Imperial Palace, I explained the history of the area from Tokyo Station through Marunouchi, and then the history from Edo Castle to the Imperial Palace. At the Tsukiji Outer Market, one of the guests wanted to eat sushi while the other did not eat fish, so I guided them to a conveyor-belt sushi restaurant. One guest enjoyed an assortment of tuna and eel, while I introduced cucumber rolls and egg sushi to the other, which they enjoyed. As that may not have been quite enough, they also purchased some fried chicken along the way. Although the tour was originally scheduled to end at Ginza 4-chome, the guests wanted to see Shibuya, and since it was also on my way home, I guided them to Shibuya. We parted ways after crossing the scramble crossing, and the guests planned to do some shopping in Shibuya.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShinjuku~Shinjuku-gyoemmae178JPY
    Section 2TrainSendagaya ~ Ochanomizu~Tokyo178JPY
    Section 3SubwayNijubashimae ~ Hibiya~Tsukiji178JPY
    Section 4SubwayGinza~Shibuya209JPY
    Total743JPY

    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.

    Sep 24, 2026
    Leslie_R
    Good tour on first day
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    Susan M
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    Jun 26, 2026
    ann r
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    Educational with kind, generous guide
    My teenage sons and I learned…

    Jun 14, 2026
    141yunb
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    Can’t believe all that we got to see in 6 hours
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