Category: Uncategorized

  • Osaka in One Day: Koyasan & Namba

    Osaka in One Day: Koyasan & Namba

    Mt. Koya Day Trip from Osaka in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    January, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 7:30 　　　 Meet at Agora Place Osaka Namba
    • 8:10-10:10　 Move to Koyasan by train
    • 10:45-11:10 Move to Kongobu-ji Temple by bus
    • 11:10-12:40 Stay at Kongobu-ji Temple
    • 12:50-13:45 Lunch & shopping
    • 13:50-13:55 Move to Danjo Garan temple complex by bus
    • 13:55-14:40 Stay at Danjo Garan temple complex
    • 14:40-14:55 Move to Okunoin-mae by bus
    • 14:55-15:35 Stay at Okunoin
    • 15:35-15:40 Move to Senjyuinbashi by bus
    • 15:40-16:00 Stay at a souvenir shop
    • 16:00-16:15 Move to Koyasan station by bus
    • 16:24-18:20 Move to Namba by train
    • Around 18:30 Takashimaya in Namba (End of the tour)

    Title: What Is a Private Winter Day Trip from Osaka to Mount Koya Like in the Snow? A Licensed Guide's Report Yesterday's rain in Osaka fell as snow at Mount Koya, where quite a lot had accumulated. The guests did not have boots, so I contacted them and asked them to wear the least slippery shoes possible and to dress warmly. Since it was the first time the guests had ever seen snow, they were delighted by the snowy scenery on the way to Mount Koya and took many photos. While the guests were innocently overjoyed, inwardly I was worried about whether we would be able to walk safely on the snowy roads. A truck and a car had collided—possibly after slipping on the snow—blocking the road and halting the bus service, so we waited on the second floor of Mount Koya Station. When I went downstairs to check the situation, it looked like the bus service was about to resume and we were told we could board and wait, so we got on the bus and traveled from Mount Koya Station into the town area of Mount Koya with a 30-minute delay. Since the information was only being announced in Japanese, I explained it in English, and other foreign tourists thanked me as well. In front of Kongobu-ji Temple, the snow had been cleared to make walking easier. For a while the guests enjoyed playing in the snow in the garden of Kongobu-ji. The attached photo was taken at that time. This time it was fresh snow again and no one slipped, but Mount Koya really is dangerous during the snowy season. I started with the indoor Kongobu-ji to buy some time and follow a route that allowed the snow to melt. During this season, most of the restaurants that had been open over New Year were closed, but because I had made a reservation at a small eatery where I am personally known, lunch was no problem. Afterward the buses came smoothly, and we focused our sightseeing on places where it was safe to walk. At Okunoin, we no longer had time to go all the way to the mausoleum, and since snow had piled up deeper inside, we strolled around the Nakanohashi bridge area and turned back. The guests seemed to enjoy shopping, so I set a limit of 20 minutes until the next bus and we stopped by the shops on the main street before returning to Mount Koya Station, where we caught a train that had just arrived and returned to Namba. The guests planned to shop at the Takashimaya department store in Namba station before heading back, so we parted ways there.

    Click here for more details: Mt. Koya Day Trip from Osaka in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassNamba～Koyasan3,540JPY
    Total3,540JPY

    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.

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

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Akihabara Radio Kaikan

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    January, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Hotel Rose Garden Shinjuku
    • 9:40 Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple, Outer Market
    • 10:50 Ameyoko, Statue of Saigo Takamori, Kiyomizu Kannon-do, Shinobazu Pond Benten-do, Ueno Toshogu Shrine
    • 11:50 Akihabara Radio Kaikan
    • 12:15 Lunch @ Isomaru Suisan
    • 13:45 Dismissal @ Shibuya Scramble Crossing

    What Is a Private Tokyo Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tsukiji, Ueno, Ameyoko and Akihabara I guided a group visiting from Oceania on their first day in Tokyo, after they had already traveled around Osaka, Kyoto, and Nagoya. In our earlier communications the plan was to visit Tsukiji, Ameyoko, Akihabara, and Harajuku, but as we talked, the guests said they wanted to visit Ueno with its large park, so we skipped Harajuku and explored the Ueno area instead. When the guests said they wanted to have lunch in Akihabara and preferred Japanese food, we went into a seafood restaurant right in front of us, where they enjoyed fried fish and grilled fish set meals and were very satisfied. At 2:00 p.m., since one of the guests had a Mario Kart reservation in Shibuya, I took the group to Dogenzaka, where the tour concluded. Perhaps because it was just after the New Year holidays, Tsukiji had fewer open shops than a usual Wednesday and felt a little quiet. In Ameyoko, I took the guests to a well-known confectionery shop, which they were delighted with. One of the guests happily bought a figure at the Radio Kaikan building. Since some of the guests played instruments, they listened to a musical saw performance in Ueno Park and gave a tip to the performer. When I explained that Benten-do enshrines the deity of music and art, the guests became interested.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayWest Shinjuku～Tsukiji210JPY
    Section 2SubwayTsukiji～Naka-Okachimachi180JPY
    Section 3TrainUeno～Akihabara150JPY
    Section 4TrainAkihabara～Shibuya210JPY
    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…

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Hiroshima Station

    Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Hiroshima Station

    Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide

    January, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at the Hotel
    • 9:10 Take a taxi to the museum
    • Museum, monument tour
    • 12:30 End of monument tour
    • 12:40 Lunch at Okonomiyaki Micchan
    • 13:30 To Miyajima via the World Heritage Sea Route
    • 14:20 Arrive at Miyajima
    • Shrine, Senjokaku, Omotesando
    • 16:25 End of Miyajima sightseeing
    • Take the ferry to Miyajimaguchi
    • 17:00 To Hiroshima Station by JR
    • 17:40 Disband at the Hiroshima Station taxi stand

    What Is a Private Tour of Hiroshima and Miyajima Like? A Licensed Guide's Report I guided a group visiting from Oceania. Some of the guests were very enthusiastic about the exhibits and viewed them carefully. They also listened deeply to the personal account of Sunao Tsuboi and to my own experience as a second-generation atomic bomb survivor. Since one of the guests had difficulty walking, there was a request to use a high-speed boat for the journey to Miyajima, which I arranged. As one of the guests was not feeling well, that person returned to the Hotel after finishing the tour of the memorial monuments. On Miyajima, the guests enjoyed freshly baked momiji manju and grilled oysters, savoring the distinctive flavors of Hiroshima. They also expressed a strong wish to try Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, so I took them to an okonomiyaki restaurant for lunch, and they were very pleased.

    Click here for more details: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherPeace Park～Miyajima1,100JPY
    Section 2TrainMiyajimaguchi Station～Hiroshima Station420JPY
    Total1,520JPY

    Select a guide: enter the WordPress Guide post ID or Guide ID in the block settings.

    Request Booking

    Sep 25, 2025
    pedropM3071GD
    Amazing day trip
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    This was an amazing experience to…

    Jul 25, 2025
    ourtravelingt
    Great personalized tour
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Our tour was fabulous and our…

    Jul 13, 2025
    katherinepE2305IO
    Hiroshima Tour 4hr Walking
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Yoshi was an amazing guide. He…

    Jul 7, 2025
    Preston_H
    Great tour guide!
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Yoshi was an incredible guide who…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    January, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 9:00 Meet at Hotel Shinagawa Sengakuji Ekimae
    • 2. 9:30 Asakusa Sensoji Temple and Nakamise
    • 3. 11:00 Akihabara
    • 4. 12:00 Shibuya Crossing
    • 5. 12:30 Meiji Shrine
    • 6. 13:30 Lunch Santouka Ramen
    • 7. 14:15 Takeshita Street
    • 8. 14:45 Disband at Takeshita Street

    What Is a First-Day Private Tokyo Tour Like? Asakusa, Akihabara, Shibuya, and Meiji Shrine — A Licensed Guide's Report On their first day visiting Japan, [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guided the guests first to Sensoji Temple in Asakusa, where they strolled and admired the powerful wooden guardian deities of the Kaminarimon and Hozomon gates. When one of the guests drew a "great blessing" (daikichi) omikuji fortune, I explained how rare it is, and they were delighted. They also enjoyed a bean and matcha cafe. They were amazed at the wide variety of products available in the vending machines. In Akihabara, they bought a figure and were astonished by the overwhelming selection. After viewing the Shibuya Crossing, they appreciated the quiet and sacred atmosphere of Meiji Shrine. Passing through the north torii gate, we went from Kitasando Station straight to a Santouka ramen shop right near Meiji-jingumae Station, and luckily a seat was open so we could eat without waiting. Since lunch finished earlier than expected, we took a back street from Omotesando, passed by Onitsuka Tiger, and leisurely strolled along Takeshita Street, eating dorayaki and looking at souvenirs. After finishing Takeshita Street, there was still a little tour time left, but the guests said it was fine to end there, so we did. I advised them to take the Yamanote Line back and get off at Takanawa Gateway Station to reach the Hotel.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassSengakuji～Asakusa900JPY
    Section 2Free PassAsakusa～Suehirocho0JPY
    Section 3TrainAkihabara～Shibuya210JPY
    Section 4TrainShibuya～Harajuku150JPY
    Section 5Free PassKitasando～Meiji-jingumae0JPY
    Total1,260JPY

    Tour Report by Kei

    Born and raised in Tokyo a half-century ago, I have lived in Tokyo all my life except for one year in the UK to study for a master’s course. I am a Tokyo Native with viewpoints based on broader local knowledge than anyone else. I have specialised in Japanese history, culture, and architecture since I was an architect.
    Also, I am a foodie emphasising Japanese traditional & healthy foods. I’ve been to many countries around the world, such as the US, Central America, Europe, and Asia. As such, I believe I can anticipate the needs of foreign tourists in Japan.

    Despite my experience as a guide for just two years, we can make the best out of our tour by travelling from your hotel to spots time-efficiently with my local knowledge, while accommodating your unexpected requests during the tour.
    My strong area includes Yanesen; Old Temples in a Quaint Village, Kamakura, Asakusa Sensoji, Meiji Shrine and Imperial Palace. All give you peace of mind.

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    Oct 22, 2025
    I5562SWphilipk
    Great intro to Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kei was a genial and knowledgeable host, who…

    Oct 12, 2025
    Gary H
    Great tour of Tokyo!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We loved our tour! Our guide was…

    Oct 5, 2025
    C
    Cindy_S
    Had one day in Tokyo and…
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Had one day in Tokyo…

    Sep 15, 2025
    chrishN2970OC
    A highly enjoyable tour of Tokyo with knowledgeable local guide
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had…

  • Tokyo: Asakusa Station & Ginza Station

    Tokyo: Asakusa Station & Ginza Station

    Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide

    January, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meeting place: Hotel Premier Asakusa International
    • 9:10 Departure: Hotel Premier Asakusa International
    • (On foot)
    • Asakusa Senso-ji Temple
    • Nakamise Shopping Street
    • 9:50 Depart Asakusa Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 10:00 Arrive Ueno Station
    • Ueno JR Station Travel Concierge
    • 10:10 Depart Ueno Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • 10:30 Arrive Tsukiji Station
    • Shiodome Hama-rikyu Gardens
    • 11:30 Depart Shiodome Station
    • (Toei Subway Oedo Line)
    • 11:45 Arrive Akabanebashi Station
    • Shiba Tokyo Tower
    • 12:30 Depart Kamiyacho Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • 12:45 Arrive Hibiya Station
    • Hibiya　Tokyo Midtown Hibiya
    • Lunch: Tsukiji Sushisei Hibiya Chanter Branch
    • 13:30 Depart Hibiya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • 14:00 Arrive Meiji-jingumae Station
    • Harajuku Meiji Shrine
    • 15:50 Depart Harajuku Station
    • (JR Yamanote Line)
    • 16:00 Arrive Shibuya Station
    • Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • Hachiko Statue
    • Shibuya Center Street
    • 17:00 Depart Shibuya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 17:30 Arrive Ginza Station
    • 17:30 Dismissal: Ginza Station

    A Private One-Day Tokyo Tour for First-Time Visitors: A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe, and it was their first time in Japan. They had arrived at Haneda the previous evening on a direct flight and taken a private car to their accommodation. This was part of a roughly two-week trip to Japan. They would stay in Tokyo for only a few days, then travel around Hakone, Kanazawa, Kyoto, Osaka, and Hiroshima, before flying from Kansai Airport to continue on to another destination in Asia. After touring around, they planned to return home, making it about a month-long holiday in total. They mentioned that they wanted to enjoy a variety of Japanese cuisine. It was a pleasant tour under clear skies and comfortable weather. They noted that winters in their home region are very rainy, so this weather felt refreshing and they had not experienced it in a while. From the hotel, we walked through the main hall and the Nakamise shopping street to Kaminarimon Gate. It was extremely crowded. I explained about "Senso-ji 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?" and "What kind of teachings does Buddhism offer?" There was a request to exchange a JR Pass coupon for tickets, so we went to the station travel concierge at Ueno Station. From there, we went via Tsukiji Station to Hama-rikyu Gardens. (At Tsukiji Market, several shops were open and there were quite a lot of tourists.) I explained about "the Edo period and the Meiji Restoration, and the history of Tokyo" and "the history of Hama-rikyu." They commented that it was wonderful to have such a large green park right in the center of the city. We watched a lion dance performance within the grounds. From here we moved on to Tokyo Tower. I explained about "Tokyo Tower" and "Tokyo Skytree." We were able to faintly see Mount Fuji. They said they now understood clearly how vast a metropolis Tokyo is. There was a request to have sushi for lunch, so we went to a sushi restaurant in Shibuya. They said the sushi was far fresher and more delicious than what they had eaten at home, and reasonably priced as well. We moved on to Meiji Shrine. A great number of worshippers had gathered, and we were stopped many times before reaching the main hall, so it took some time. Again, I explained about "the Meiji Restoration," "Emperor Meiji," and "why wine barrels are displayed there." They said it was wonderful and refreshing that there was another place with so much greenery in the center of the city. After this, we moved to Shibuya, experienced the Scramble Crossing, and took photos. We also took commemorative photos in front of the Hachiko statue. Here too there were questions such as "Why are there so many people? Are they mostly Japanese, or are they travelers?" They also commented that "Japanese people are all so polite," "the streets are clean and there is no litter," "why aren't there any trash cans?," "the subway is very well-designed and far more comfortable than back home," and "the public restrooms are clean and pleasant." They wished to stroll around Ginza before returning to the hotel, so I saw them off at Ginza Station and we parted ways.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayAsakusa Station～Ueno Station178JPY
    Section 2SubwayUeno Station～Tsukiji Station178JPY
    Section 3SubwayShiodome Station～Akabanebashi Station178JPY
    Section 4SubwayKamiyacho Station～Hibiya Station178JPY
    Section 5SubwayHibiya Station～Meiji-jingumae Station178JPY
    Section 6TrainHarajuku Station～Shibuya Station146JPY
    Section 7SubwayShibuya Station～Ginza Station209JPY
    Total1,245JPY

    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 Half a Day: Departure: Ginza Station & Shibuya Station

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Departure: Ginza Station & Shibuya Station

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    January, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 12:00 Meeting place: Hotel Tokyo by HULIC
    • 12:10 Departure: Ginza Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 12:30 Arrive at Asakusa Station
    • Asakusa Sensoji Temple
    • Asakusa Shrine
    • Nakamise Shopping Street
    • 13:30 Depart Asakusa Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Omotesando Station
    • 14:00 Meiji-jingumae Station
    • Harajuku Meiji Shrine
    • Takeshita Street
    • Cat Street
    • 15:00 Harajuku Station
    • (JR Yamanote Line)
    • 15:10 Shibuya Station
    • Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • Hachiko Statue
    • 16:00 Shibuya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 16:30 Ginza Station
    • 16:30 Dismissal: Ginza Station

    # What Can You See on a Short Private Tokyo Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Meiji Shrine, Harajuku, and Shibuya The guests were visitors from North America, both visiting Japan for the first time. Since the guests were not very comfortable with English, the tour was conducted using a mix of English and Spanish. Two weeks earlier, the group had arrived at Narita Airport on a direct flight and headed straight to the Kansai region. After touring Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, and Hiroshima, they came to Tokyo a couple of days ago. Yesterday they visited Disneyland. Their request was to "see the main spots of Tokyo in a short amount of time." Although it was cold, the tour took place under clear, sunny skies. First, we went to Asakusa. We passed through the Nakamise shopping street from Kaminarimon Gate to the main hall. It was extremely crowded, and we were held up many times before reaching the temple. I explained about "the history of Sensoji Temple and the transition 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 is Shinto different from Buddhism?" and "Are there Catholics in Japan?" As souvenirs, the guests purchased items such as chopsticks at the Nakamise shopping street. We then moved to Harajuku and visited Meiji Shrine. This too was very crowded, and we were held up many times before reaching the main hall. I explained again about "the difference between Buddhism and Shinto" and "the Meiji Restoration." The guests remarked, "It is wonderful that there is such a green park in the center of the city." We then moved on to Takeshita Street and Cat Street. The guests mentioned an interest in vintage clothing and said they would come back again the next day. After this, we moved to Shibuya, where the guests experienced the scramble crossing and took photos. We also took commemorative photos in front of the Hachiko statue. Here too, there were questions such as: "Why are there so many people? Are they mostly Japanese, or are they mostly travelers?" The guests also commented: "Japanese people are all so polite," "The city is clean and there is no litter scattered around," "Why are there no trash cans?" and "The public restrooms are clean and pleasant to use." I saw the guests off at Ginza Station, and the tour concluded.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayGinza Station～Asakusa Station209JPY
    Section 2SubwayAsakusa Station～Meiji-jingumae Station252JPY
    Section 3TrainHarajuku Station～Shibuya Station146JPY
    Section 4SubwayShibuya Station～Ginza Station209JPY
    Total816JPY

    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…

  • Osaka in Half a Day: Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine & Shitennoji Temple

    Osaka in Half a Day: Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine & Shitennoji Temple

    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    January, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Meet @ Hotel The Leben Osaka
    • 09:30 @ Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine
    • 11:00 @ Shitennoji Temple
    • 12:30 Dismissal @ Bakery inside JR Morinomiya Station

    Title: What's a Private Walking Tour of Osaka's Shrines and Temples Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors to Japan, and although it was very windy and cold, we were able to move around smoothly. The guests seemed very devout, praying earnestly at both shrines and temples. At Sumiyoshi Taisha, they prayed at the main hall, picked up the small "Go-Dai-Riki" pebbles from the popular power spot, and purchased amulet pouches. At Shitennoji, we happened to arrive during the monks' chanting, which we were able to observe, and near the pond in the temple grounds we encountered a very rare wild bird (likely a heron, which even I as a guide was seeing for the first time), and the guests were delighted, calling it "lucky." Since we spent a little too much time at these two spots, I guided them to the station nearest to Osaka Castle, and as they mentioned being a bit hungry, we parted ways after ordering a light snack at a bakery inside the station. They said they would view the castle from the outside on their own afterward.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShinsaibashi～Namba190JPY
    Section 2TrainNamba～Sumiyoshi Taisha240JPY
    Section 3TrainSumiyoshitorii-mae～Tennoji230JPY
    Section 4SubwayShitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka～Morinomiya240JPY
    Total900JPY

    Tour Report by Yama

    Dear my guests,

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

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

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

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

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

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

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    Jul 25, 2026
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  • Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    January, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet the guests @hotel Kanra Kyoto
    • Around 10:40　Arrive at Kinkaku-ji by taxi, guided tour
    • Around 11:45　Arrive at Arashiyama Bamboo Grove by taxi, guided tour
    • Around 12:10　Arrive at Tenryu-ji, guided tour
    • Around 13:00　Fushimi Inari Shrine, guided tour
    • Around 14:00　Arrive at Keihan Gion-Shijo Station
    • Around 14:10　Disband in front of Nishiki Market

    What Kyoto Sights Can You See in a Private Day Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report on Kinkaku-ji, Arashiyama, and Fushimi Inari The guests visited Japan from North America. They were delighted to be able to visit Kinkaku-ji, the bamboo grove in Arashiyama, Tenryu-ji, and Fushimi Inari, all of which they had requested. They mentioned that they had already done so much shopping that their suitcases were full, so they were not going to buy any souvenirs during the tour. Kinkaku-ji was a spot the guests had seen on social media and wanted to visit, and they were very happy with how beautiful it was. The bamboo grove was a spot the guests wanted to see, and they posted on social media that it was very beautiful. The guests all loved Japanese history, and we had a lively conversation about figures such as Toyotomi Hideyoshi and Tokugawa Ieyasu. Yesterday, the area near Fushimi Inari Taisha was very congested, so today we took the train from Arashiyama to head to Fushimi Inari. At Fushimi Inari, the guests enjoyed taking photos. After the tour, they wanted to go to Nishiki Market, so I took them to Nishiki Market. They plan to visit Nijo Castle, Ginkaku-ji, and Heian Shrine tomorrow.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainJR Saga-Arashiyama～JR Inari240JPY
    Section 2TrainKeihan Fushimi-Inari～Keihan Gion-Shijo240JPY
    Total480JPY

    Tour Report by Mako

    Hello! I’m Mako. I’m from Nara and live in Kobe city in Japan right now. I used to live in mountainous area in Nara.
    Nara is famous for deer. There is no sea in Nara. On the other hands, Kobe is one of famous port cities in Japan and famous for Kobe beef and night views.
    My favorite food is Yatsuhashi. It is one of famous sweets in Kyoto city. When I was a University student, I used to be a volunteer guide at Kiyomizu temple in Kyoto. There are many shops which sells yatsuhashi in Kyoto.

    I like traveling. I have been to Canada, South Korea, France, Australia and the United States.

    I studied English in South Florida University when I was a university student. I stayed for about 1 year. During stay in the U.S, I visited Las Vegas, New York, Boston, Miami, and so on. After that I worked at the travel company in Japan. Then I got the license of tour guide in 2014. I started to work as a tour guide in 2015. I usually visit Kyoto, Nara ,Osaka and Kobe with my guests. I’m very looking forward to meeting you!

    Request Booking

    Apr 29, 2026
    K Q
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Excellent Tour. Highly Recommend. Guide Mako was fantastic.
    Our guide, Mako,…

    Apr 14, 2026
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  • Sapporo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Sapporo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Sapporo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    January, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 9:30 – Meet customers at Hotel Gracery Sapporo
    • 2. 10:00 – Enter Shiroi Koibito Park (Ishiya Confectionery) (Watch the history video of the chocolate factory, tour the production line, shopping at the souvenir shop)
    • 3. 11:30 – Stroll (shopping) at Sapporo Central Wholesale Market Outer Market
    • 4. 11:45 – Lunch at the restaurant "Kita no Gourmet" inside the same market
    • 5. 13:00 – Board the dedicated shuttle bus to Sapporo Factory (free)
    • 6. 13:30 – Arrive at Sapporo Factory (free time, shopping, etc.)
    • 7. 16:50 – Stroll around Tanukikoji (1st to 3rd Chome)
    • 8. 17:15 – Guide to Ramen Yokocho (Minami 5-jo Nishi 3-chome), guide leaves

    What Is a Private Walking and Public Transit Tour of Sapporo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report This was the second day of meeting the guests, so I guided them with a real sense of familiarity. One of the guests had previously visited Sapporo and Otaru about a year and a half earlier. They spoke fondly about their earlier visit, including the scenery and the food. We traveled by public transportation and on foot, but the guests showed no sign of fatigue and enjoyed a smooth day of travel. On the way from Miyanosawa Station to the Sapporo Central Wholesale Market outer market by subway, they had bought a ticket to Sapporo Station, but since Nijuyonken Station turned out to be closer, we got off there and walked to the market. The guests appeared to greatly enjoy Hokkaido's cuisine, starting with Sapporo ramen. I encouraged them to visit Hokkaido again and said goodbye.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwaySapporo Station～Miyanosawa Station290JPY
    Section 2SubwayMiyanosawa Station～Sapporo Station290JPY
    Total580JPY

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  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Shimbashi Station & Meiji-jingumae Station

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Shimbashi Station & Meiji-jingumae Station

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    January, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet up @ Hotel Ginza Premier
    • 10:15 Shimbashi Station
    • 10:45 Asakusa Station
    • Asakusa Tourist Center, Nakamise, Senso-ji Temple
    • 12:10 Asakusa Station
    • 12:50 Meiji-jingumae Station
    • Meiji Shrine
    • 14:00 Disband @ Takeshita Street entrance

    Title: What's a Private Day Tour of Asakusa and Meiji Shrine in Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America, visiting Japan for the first time and very much looking forward to their trip. Although I had proposed Tsukiji and Asakusa, we were unable to communicate sufficiently in advance, so we started the day without a fixed plan. When we met, the guests mentioned they would visit Tsukiji on their own, so at their request we changed the plan to Asakusa and Meiji Shrine. Both places still had a lingering New Year's atmosphere, and since the guests wanted to learn about Japanese history and culture, I spoke as much as I could about whatever caught their interest. While traveling on the subway, I also suggested efficient ways to get around on other days. The guests asked many questions about what they saw, and I greatly enjoyed our conversations.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShimbashi Station～Asakusa Station210JPY
    Section 2SubwayAsakusa Station～Meiji-jingumae Station260JPY
    Total470JPY

    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
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    Lily is the best. Highly recommended
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