Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    January, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 11:00 Meet at Hotel Premier Grand
    • 2. 11:30 Meiji Shrine
    • 3. 13:00 Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 4. 13:30 Lunch at Sushisei
    • 5. 14:30 Asakusa Senso-ji Temple and Nakamise
    • 6. 15:00 Disband at Asakusa Senso-ji Temple

    What Does a First-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Look Like? A Licensed Guide's Report This was the first day for guests visiting Japan for the first time. We began at Meiji Shrine, where the guests enthusiastically photographed the fine details of the shrine architecture. They deeply felt the mystery of the sacred grounds, so seamlessly blended with nature. At the outer Tsukiji market, after strolling around and trying yakitori, the guests settled in at the counter seats of a sushi restaurant and ordered an omakase course. They also enjoyed beer and sake and seemed very satisfied. Although I did not sit with them, I checked on them from time to time. After the meal, one of the guests, who enjoys cooking, listened intently to an explanation of Japanese kitchen knives at a specialty shop and purchased two premium ones. We then strolled through Asakusa before parting ways. Although it was a short amount of time, the guests appeared to have thoroughly enjoyed it.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassTochomae～Yoyogi900JPY
    Section 2Free PassMeiji-jingumae～Tsukiji0JPY
    Section 3Free PassHigashi-ginza～Asakusa0JPY
    Total900JPY

    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 in Half a Day: MEIJI JINGU SHRINE & Nihonbashi station

    Tokyo in Half a Day: MEIJI JINGU SHRINE & Nihonbashi station

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    January, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 meet at Hotel Blossom Shinjuku
    • 10:00 1. MEIJI JINGU SHRINE
    • 11:00 2. TAKESHITA STREET
    • 12:00 3. SHIBUYA CROSSING
    • 13:00 5. THE IMPERIAL PALACE
    • 13:45 6. Nihonbashi station

    Title: What Is a Private Tokyo Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Harajuku and Asakusa The guests were visiting from Oceania. They were cheerful and conversation flowed easily. However, we hit a snag right from the start. When purchasing a 24-hour Tokyo Metro pass, both of their cards were VISA International, yet they were rejected by the ticket machine, so in the end I purchased the passes with my own card. The guests had a strong wish to broaden their understanding of the cultures and religions of various countries, and they listened attentively to my guiding, including questions and answers. On Takeshita Street, they wanted to visit a micro-pig cafe that was not on the itinerary, so we decided to wait outside for about 30 minutes. It was cold. Since the guests had a scheduled appointment in Asakusa at 15:00, I saw them off at Nihombashi Station a little past the ending time and took my leave.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassTokyo Metro 24-Hour Ticket_Shinjuku～Meiji-jingumae600JPY
    Section 2Free PassTokyo Metro 24-Hour Ticket_Meiji-jingumae～Shibuya～Otemachi～Nihonbashi0JPY
    Total600JPY

    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 in Half a Day: Toyosu Market & Sensoji Temple

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Toyosu Market & Sensoji Temple

    Tsukiji Local Food & Culture Half-Day Tour, Licensed Guide

    January, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:00　Meet at Shijo-mae Station (Yurikamome)
    • 08:05　Toyosu Market
    • 09:40　Tsukiji Market
    • 11:15　Sensoji Temple
    • 12:10　Disperse at Kappabashi Kitchen Town

    What Does a Private Tokyo Tour with a Licensed Guide Look Like? A Toyosu, Tsukiji, and Asakusa Report The guests were a group from Oceania visiting Japan for the first time. After sightseeing in Tokyo, they planned to travel to Hakuba in Nagano Prefecture and to Kyoto. At Toyosu Market, the guests observed with great interest the area where the tuna auctions take place. At Tsukiji Market, they showed keen interest in Tsukiji Uogashi and the many shops in the outer market. At Senso-ji Temple, the guests listened with interest to explanations about the differences between temples and shrines, and were also drawn to the Kaminarimon Gate and the shops along Nakamise-dori. Since one of the guests wished to buy tableware and other items, I guided the group to Kappabashi Street before we parted ways. As I responded exactly to the guests' wishes, I believe they were satisfied.

    Click here for more details: Tsukiji Local Food & Culture Half-Day Tour, Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShijo-mae～Toyosu190JPY
    Section 2SubwayToyosu～Shintomicho600JPY
    Section 3SubwayTsukiji～Asakusa0JPY
    Section 4SubwayAsakusa～Tawaramachi0JPY
    Total790JPY

    Tour Report by Seizo

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

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    Jul 10, 2026
    surferbikerdude1
    Tripadvisor review: Kamakura Day Trip from Tokyo in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Beautiful Tour of Kamakura
    Seizo Kamiuto was out…

    Jun 9, 2026
    stacy_grana
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A wonderful day with an experienced guide
    Our guide, Seizo, was amazing.…

    Jun 6, 2026
    U9351HJjakes
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo Tour
    Seizo Kamiuto was great and super knowledgeable. He had a…

    May 20, 2026
    HugoJ670
    Tripadvisor review: Edo Tokyo & Japanese Culture Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Tokio in de zon
    Seizo Kaminto is een uitstekende…

  • Shizuoka: Sumpu Castle Park

    Shizuoka: Sumpu Castle Park

    Mt. Fuji View Shimizu Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    January, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet in front of Starbucks at JR Shizuoka Station
    • 9:33 – 10:18 Bus ride Shizuoka Station → Nihondaira Ropeway Station
    • 10:30 – Nihondaira Yume Terrace, Nihondaira Ropeway, Kunozan Toshogu Shrine
    • 12:30 – 13:16 Bus ride Nihondaira Ropeway → Shizuoka Station
    • 13:30 – 14:15 Lunch @ Maguro-don no Bunta
    • 14:30 – 15:00 Sumpu Castle Park
    • 15:15 Disband at Surugaya

    What Is a Private Fuji-View Day Tour in Shizuoka Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America, including university students. They were on a two-week trip around Japan, visiting Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto, and finally wanted to see Mount Fuji in Shizuoka. I took the group to Nihondaira, where Mount Fuji can be seen. Fortunately, the weather was fine, and the snow-capped Mount Fuji was beautifully visible, which delighted the guests. As they requested to eat tuna, we had lunch at a tuna bowl restaurant. Since they wanted to see plastic models, I took the group to a hobby shop near Shizuoka Station and then parted ways.

    Click here for more details: Mt. Fuji View Shimizu Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusShizuoka Station～Nihondaira Ropeway710JPY
    Section 2BusNihondaira Ropeway～Shizuoka Station710JPY
    Total1,420JPY

    Tour Report by TerryHirao

    My name is Terry Hirao, Shizuoka’s local tour guide. You can call me Terry, as in Teriyaki. I love Japan and Japanese culture and can show you the best of Japan, its history, breathtaking beauty, delicious foods, Japanese Tea. Shizoka is located in the middle of Tokyo and Kyoto/Osaka, two largest metropolitan cities and famous for Mt. Fuji, Japanese Tea and a lot more. The most popular destinations in Shizuoka are Nihon Daira Plateau, Kunozan Toshogu Shrines (National Treasure), Miho Pine Tree Grove (World Cultural Heritage). I hope I can help you enjoy your trip!!

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    Nov 6, 2024
    andrew h
    Very knowledgeable tour guide of the area
    Tripadvisor review: Shizuoka/Shimizu Mt Fuji View 6 hr Private Tour: Guide Only
    Very…

    Oct 21, 2024
    Adventurer_from_Cda
    We had a great time – we enjoyed having Terry H as our guide for Shizuoka/Shimizu! Thank you!
    Tripadvisor review: Shizuoka/Shimizu…

    Sep 16, 2024
    Jane_R
    Great experience on this Mt Fuji private tour
    Viator review: Shizuoka/Shimizu Mt Fuji View 6 hr Private Tour: Guide Only
    Terry…

    Aug 21, 2024
    Go02797182361
    Too cloudy for Mt Fuji but still a great tour with Terry
    Tripadvisor review: Shizuoka/Shimizu Mt Fuji View 6 hr Private…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Departure: JR Shimbashi Station & Shibuya Station

    Tokyo in One Day: Departure: JR Shimbashi Station & Shibuya Station

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    January, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meeting place: Sotetsu Fresa Inn Ginza-Nanachome
    • 10:10 Departure: JR Shimbashi Station
    • (JR Yamanote Line)
    • JR Ueno Station/Keisei Ueno Station
    • (Keisei Main Line)
    • Keisei Takasago Station
    • (Keisei Kanamachi Line)
    • 11:00 Arrive Keisei Shibamata Station
    • Shibamata Shibamata Taishakuten
    • 11:40 Depart Keisei Shibamata Station
    • (Keisei Kanamachi Line)
    • Keisei Takasago Station
    • (Keisei Main Line)
    • 12:00 Arrive Keisei Nippori Station
    • Nippori Yanaka Ginza
    • 12:30 Depart Sendagi Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • Kasumigaseki Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • 13:00 Arrive Kamiyacho Station
    • Shiba Tokyo Tower
    • Lunch: Food court
    • 14:00 Depart Kamiyacho Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • Kasumigaseki Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • 14:30 Arrive Meiji-jingumae Station
    • Harajuku Meiji Shrine
    • 15:00 Depart Harajuku Station
    • (JR Yamanote Line)
    • 15:10 Arrive Shibuya Station
    • Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • Hachiko Statue
    • 16:00 Depart Shibuya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 16:30 Arrive Shimbashi Station
    • 16:30 Disband: Shimbashi Station

    Title: What Can You See on a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from South America. They arrived at Haneda two days earlier via another international route and traveled to their hotel by private car. The day before, they had explored Asakusa and Ginza. This was part of an approximately two-week trip to Japan (also their first trip to the Asian region). They planned to stay in Tokyo for only three days, then travel around Mount Fuji, Kyoto, Osaka, and Hiroshima. After returning to Tokyo, they planned to visit Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam before flying home via Europe. They said, "We want to enjoy various kinds of Japanese food." It was a pleasant tour under clear skies and comfortable weather. They mentioned that the temperature back home stays around 10–13°C throughout the year, "about the same as the current temperature in Tokyo." We first headed to Katsushika Shibamata, walking along the approach to Taishakuten Temple. It was very crowded and hard to move forward. The comments were, "It's a calm and quiet place," and "I've heard of the Tora-san story." On the way back, they bought and tasted a "chocolate banana" from a street stall. We then went via Ueno to the "Yanesen" area. At Yanaka Ginza, the comments were, "I love this kind of calm scenery," and "The guidebook said it's famous for cats, but where are the cats?" From there, we moved to Tokyo Tower. I explained about "Tokyo Tower" and "Tokyo Skytree." We could faintly see Mount Fuji. The comment was, "Now I really understand that Tokyo is a vast, sprawling metropolis." We took a break at the food court. We moved to Harajuku. At Meiji Shrine, I explained "the Meiji Restoration," "Emperor Meiji," and "why wine barrels are displayed there." The comment was, "It's wonderful that there's such a green place in the city center. It feels great." After this, we moved to Shibuya, experienced the scramble crossing, and took photos. We also took a commemorative photo in front of the Hachiko statue. There were comments such as, "Japanese people are all polite," "The city is clean and there's no litter scattered around," "Why aren't there any trash cans?", "The subway seems well made, but it's hard to understand until you get used to it," and "The public restrooms are clean and pleasant." I saw the guests off at Shimbashi Station, and we parted ways.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShimbashi Station～Ueno Station167JPY
    Section 2TrainKeisei Ueno Station～Keisei Shibamata Station272JPY
    Section 3TrainKeisei Shibamata Station～Keisei Nippori Station272JPY
    Section 4SubwaySendagi Station～Kamiyacho Station209JPY
    Section 5SubwayKamiyacho Station～Meiji-jingumae Station178JPY
    Section 6TrainHarajuku Station～Shibuya Station146JPY
    Section 7SubwayShibuya Station～Shimbashi Station178JPY
    Total1,422JPY

    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…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine & Kiyomizu-dera Temple

    Kyoto in One Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine & Kiyomizu-dera Temple

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    January, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet up @The Ritz Carlton Kyoto
    • 10:31 Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 12:10 Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 13:15 Lunch @Shijo Karasuma
    • 14:15 Walk: Yasaka Pagoda ~ Sannenzaka ~ Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • 14:40 Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • 16:00 Disband @The Ritz Carlton Kyoto

    Can You Do a Private Walking Tour of Tokyo in Winter? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. One of them was visiting Japan for the first time, while the other was returning to Japan for the first time in over 30 years, and they were very much looking forward to this tour. The day was very cold with a chilly north wind, but they said, "It's much colder where we come from," and both walked around energetically. Initially I had planned a longer lunch time to accommodate a preference, but when I checked, they said it was not a concern, so we were able to finish the tour on schedule.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainSanjo～Fushimi Inari220JPY
    Section 2TrainInari～Kyoto150JPY
    Section 3SubwayKyoto～Kitaoji260JPY
    Section 4BusKitaoji Bus Terminal～Kinkaku-ji-michi460JPY
    Section 5SubwayKitaoji～Shijo260JPY
    Section 6BusShijo Karasuma～Kiyomizu-michi230JPY
    Section 7BusKiyomizu-michi～Higashiyama Sanjo230JPY
    Section 8SubwayHigashiyama～Kyoto Shiyakusho-mae220JPY
    Total2,030JPY

    Tour Report by Hiro

    Thanks for joining our tour. I’m Hiro Nakagawa, assigned to be your guide for this tour. I was eligible as a National Licensed Tour Guide in 2017. I have guided many tourists from overseas since then. Japan is a beautiful country with full of various attractions. Please enjoy your time in this country to the fullest. I will help you with that. What are you interested in this country? I will introduce this country’s long history, traditional culture, beautiful seasonal highlights, and delicious food to you. Please let me know your preferences. If it’s other than which I mentioned, I’m preparing it for you as much as possible. Let’s enjoy the trip together!

    Request Booking

    Jul 13, 2025
    H2enjoy
    Wonderful Day Trip to Mt. Koya from the Osaka Cruise Terminal
    Tripadvisor review: Mt. Koya Sacred Full-Day Private Tour (Osaka departure)…

    Jun 20, 2025
    zoranm709
    Kyoto great tour experience.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Enjoyed the sites we were taken. Hiro was…

    Jun 18, 2025
    Adventurer310309
    Cool surprises on our Osaka and Kyoto tours with Hiro.
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    My wife…

    May 26, 2025
    SK G
    Excellent tour
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 6hr Private Walking Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Mr. Hiro provided an excellent experience. Personable…

  • 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. 08:55 Meet up@MIMARU TOKYO STATION EAST
    • 2. 09:00 Transport: Car (Driven by Mr. John from Japan Global Travel)
    • 3. 09:30 Stay@Asakusa
    • 4. 10:10 Transport: Car
    • 5. 10:50 Stay@Tsukiji Uogashi
    • 6. 11:10 Lunch@Sushizanmai Annex
    • 7. 12:10 Transport: Car
    • 8. 12:50 Stay@Otter Cafe HARRY Harajuku Terrace
    • 9. 13:40 Stay@Takeshita Street
    • 10. 14:10 Transport: Car (14:20~14:25 Photo shoot at Shibuya Scramble Crossing)
    • 11. 14:55 Disband@MIMARU TOKYO STATION EAST

    **Title:** What's a Private Family Day Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Harajuku, and Shibuya The guests were a group from Oceania. I had been told there would be a group of several people, but as some members did not join, the group ended up being smaller than expected. Because there was a considerable difference between the itinerary proposed by the guests' travel agency and what the guests actually wanted, I reworked the itinerary on the spot before the tour began, while listening to their preferences. Since they wanted an early lunch at Tsukiji, I first took them to Asakusa, which was relatively nearby. In the afternoon they had a reservation at an animal cafe in Harajuku, so I prioritized that timing, but since the cafe did not open until 13:00, we ended up with time to spare after arriving early, which was a bit unfortunate. The guests asked to return to their Hotel by 15:00 because they were heading to the airport right after the tour ended. I wanted to save as much time as possible at the animal cafe and on Takeshita Street, but it was challenging to keep everyone together, as some of the guests were often drawn to items in the shops and kept leaving the route. I had thought it would be difficult to include the Shibuya Scramble Crossing within the time available, but thanks to the driver, John, we were at least able to set aside time for some of the guests to take photos. Fortunately, it was a weekday and the roads were not very congested, so we were able to return to the Hotel before 15:00. I would like to thank John from the transportation company.

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

    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 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

    • 09:30 Meet at hotel lobby (Hotel CABIN Shinjuku), then travel to Gotokuji Station via the subway Fukutoshin Line and the Odakyu Line
    • 10:30-11:45 Arrive at Gotokuji Station and walk round trip to Gotokuji Temple (15 min x 2). Tour of the Gotokuji temple grounds.
    • 11:45-12:10 Travel from Gotokuji Station to Nijubashimae Station on the Chiyoda Line
    • 12:10-13:00 Guide from Nijubashimae Station on foot to the Imperial Palace Nijubashi and the Main Gate. Afterward, travel from Nijubashimae Station to Asakusa Station.
    • 13:40-14:30 Lunch (okonomiyaki at Tsukishima Monja Okoge)
    • 14:30-15:40 Guide through Nakamise Street and the Sensoji temple grounds. When I was about to take them back to the hotel, the guests requested, "We'd like to stay here for a while and explore a bit more on our own," so the guide service ended.

    What Is a Private Tokyo Tour to Gotokuji and Sensoji Temple Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. They stayed in Tokyo for six days and planned to continue to an onsen in the Kansai region afterward. The course had been finalized through several email exchanges beforehand. We first went to Gotokuji Temple, where they wished to dedicate a beckoning cat figurine, so I assisted them. One of the guests dedicated the largest cat for 10,000 yen, and another dedicated a slightly smaller but still large cat for 7,000 yen. I was quietly surprised at the fairly high value of the offerings as I watched over them, and the guests, including the person who had booked the tour, closed their eyes and prayed for a long time before the beckoning cat hall. I sensed there must be some special reason, and I learned what it was over lunch. As it turned out, one of the guests had proposed the day after arriving in Tokyo, and the proposal had been accepted, so they had prayed that they might spend a long and happy life together. The reason they wished to visit Gotokuji Temple was that one of the guests loves cats very much. I have guided a great many tours in the city, but this was the first time I had heard of a proposal during a trip, and as I enjoyed some delicious, warm okonomiyaki, my own heart was warmed, and I offered them my heartfelt congratulations. All of them were very sincere and genuine, and they eagerly asked about Japanese history and culture, which made explaining things a real joy for me. I explained the various differences between the serene Gotokuji Temple and the ever-lively Sensoji Temple, and they understood this very well. I was impressed by how thoughtful and grounded they were despite their youth, and we ended the tour on that note. When I asked for their impressions at the end, they told me, "It was a very educational and enjoyable tour. Thank you." Being surrounded by so much happiness made me feel happy as well, and I concluded the tour with deep gratitude for the chance to guide such an auspicious tour at the start of the new year. Indeed, I am now convinced that the beckoning cats of Gotokuji Temple surely bring good fortune and wonderful encounters with good people (laughs).

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShinjuku-sanchome～Yoyogi-Uehara600JPY
    Section 2TrainYoyogi-Uehara～Gotokuji170JPY
    Section 3TrainGotokuji～Yoyogi-Uehara170JPY
    Section 4SubwayYoyogi-Uehara～Nijubashimae0JPY
    Section 5SubwayNijubashimae～Asakusa0JPY
    Total940JPY

    Tour Report by MINORUASAI

    I acquired national guide license in 2014, and I have been doing guide work full fledged since 2016. In my career before starting guide work, I was a business man and made more than 1,000 business trips both abroad and in Japan, and that experience is my foundation as a guide because I came to know so many places both abroad and in Japan. I have been taking care of both group and individual tourists, and the number of foreign guests I have taken care is close to 2,500 so far. I am based in Tokyo, but I can cover guide work in many prefectures throughout Japan. When I take care of foreign guests, my major concern is to listen attentively to them, find out what they want to know and do in Japan, and give them appropriate guiding in accordance with what I heard from my guests. I would like to provide tailor made tour as much as possible for every precious guest who kindly chose Japan as the tour destination.

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    Aug 1, 2025
    8
    898kendrap
    Great first day in Tokyo!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Asai, our tour guide, made our…

    Jul 14, 2025
    Anette_V
    Perfect
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our guide Minoru Asai was very friendly and knowledgeable about culture,…

    Jun 30, 2025
    liammL2246HL
    Amazing experience
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had an amazing private tour with Minoru Asai! We…

    Jun 26, 2025
    394milesd
    Excellent guide making an excellent day in Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A perfect day, tailored…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa & Harajuku

    Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa & Harajuku

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    January, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet up @ Conrad Tokyo
    • 10:40 Asakusa (Kaminarimon Gate ~ Nakamise ~ Sensoji Temple ~ Rokku Yokocho)
    • 11:40 Nezu Shrine ~ Snake Path ~ Yanaka Ginza
    • 13:00 Akihabara (Radio Kaikan, Gundam Shop)
    • 14:00 Lunch @ Harajuku Gyozaro
    • 14:30 Harajuku (B side Label, Takeshita Street)
    • 15:45 From the car window: Shibuya PARCO, Scramble Crossing)
    • 16:30 Disband @ Conrad Tokyo

    Title: What's a Private Walking Tour of Tokyo's Hidden Neighborhoods Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. One of them had visited Japan many times before, though never for sightseeing, while the tour marked another guest's first visit to Japan. They planned to stay for about two weeks, visiting Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and Nagoya. Since this was the first day, before setting out I gave an explanation at the Hotel about the history of Japan and Tokyo and how to use the public transportation system. The guests had requested a mix of Tokyo's famous sights and lesser-visited spots, so I built Nezu, Yanaka, and the back streets of Harajuku (Ura-Harajuku) into the itinerary. At Hebi-michi (Snake Alley), they were delighted, saying this was exactly what they had wanted to see. I had planned to take them to Meiji Shrine for the first time, but the rain grew heavy, so during lunch we discussed the options and, instead of Meiji Shrine, I guided them to a place where they could buy souvenirs to bring back later. Guiding them to Radio Kaikan and a Gundam shop in Akihabara served the same purpose. As part of the visit also involved business, we exchanged views along the way about Japanese business customs and marketing. (My apologies that the photos came out in portrait orientation.)

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayAsakusa Line Shimbashi～Asakusa Line Asakusa220JPY
    Section 2TrainJR Nippori～JR Akihabara167JPY
    Section 3TrainJR Akihabara～JR Harajuku178JPY
    Section 4SubwayGinza Line Shibuya～Ginza Line Shimbashi178JPY
    Total743JPY

    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…

  • Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour

    Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour

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

    January, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:05 Hiroshima Station Meet 10:10 ==== 10:25 Kamiyacho ････ Hypocenter・Atomic Bomb Dome・Aioi Bridge・Children's Peace Monument・Rest House・Peace Flame・Cenotaph・11:30 Atomic Bomb Museum 12:25 ･････ 12:35 Lunch Okonomiyaki Benbee Otemachi Store 13:15 ････ 13:20 Broadcasting Hall Bus Stop 13:21 ==== 13:30 Koi Bus Stop ･････ Nishi-Hiroshima Station 13:39 ｰｰｰ 13:58 Miyajimaguchi Station ････ Miyajimaguchi Pier 14:10 ～～～ 14:20 Miyajima Pier ････ Omotesando ････ 14:50 Itsukushima Shrine 15:40 ････ 15:50 Daisho-in Temple 16:15 ･･ (Free Time) ･･ 16:55 Miyajima Pier 17:10 ~~~ 17:20 Miyajimaguchi Pier ････ Miyajimaguchi Station 17:41 ーーー 18:10 Hiroshima Station・Shinkansen Ticket Gate Transfer・Shopping Assistance 18:20 Dismissal
    • 　　　==== Bus, 　････ Walk, 　～～～ Ferry, ーーー JR

    What Is a Private Day Tour of Hiroshima and Miyajima Like? A Licensed Guide's Report I met the guests at the ticket gate off the Shinkansen arriving at Hiroshima Station at 9:56, then took the loop bus to Kamiyacho. From the hypocenter we walked via Aioi Bridge, visiting the memorial monuments within Peace Memorial Park and touring the Rest House. Due to time constraints, we could only secure 45 minutes at the Peace Memorial Museum. After viewing the G7 Hall, we went to a restaurant in Otemachi for lunch. Some of the guests were unable to eat the fish powder (bonito powder) used in okonomiyaki. The restaurant kindly accommodated the order, and the guests were pleased as we left. After moving to the bus stop, the bus arrived right away, and we headed to Miyajima via Nishi-Hiroshima. Passing along the main approach, we visited Itsukushima Shrine, Daigan-ji Temple, and Daisho-in Temple, then took about 30 minutes of free time along the approach, gathering at the pier at 16:55. We boarded the 17:10 ferry. The barrier-free room was well received. We arrived at Hiroshima Station at 18:10. The guests wanted to buy bento and drinks, but the bento shop was closed, so I took them to a store to purchase drinks before we parted ways. It was 18:20. In addition to the JR Pass, they had Suica cards, so travel went smoothly. I believe they were generally pleased.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusHiroshima Station North Exit～Kamiyacho200JPY
    Section 2BusBroadcasting Hall～Miyajima Kaido (Koi)200JPY
    Section 3TrainNishi-Hiroshima Station～Miyajimaguchi Station330JPY
    Section 4TrainMiyajimaguchi Station～Hiroshima Station420JPY
    Total1,150JPY

    Tour Report by Nob

    I was born and raised in Hiroshima, and began guiding services in full swing in July 2023. I am a second-generation of A-bomb survivor. Neither of my parents told much about the war, but I can tell you some of their experiences. In Hiroshima City, I can tell you about Peace Park, Peace Memorial Museum, and other monuments. In Miyajima, I can tell you about Itsukushima Shrine, Daigan-ji Temple, Daisho-in Temple, etc. Hiroshima has some specialties such as okonomiyaki, oysters, and conger eel. I will be able to introduce you to some delicious restaurants. Let’s learn and enjoy Hiroshima together.

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    Apr 2, 2026
    Trudy M
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Ask for Nob – he’s the best guide.
    We…

    Oct 24, 2025
    David_F
    Nob did a great job…
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Nob did a great…

    Sep 28, 2025
    Phong_N
    Amazing day in Hiroshima
    Viator review: Hiroshima 6hr Private Guided Tour & Food Tasting with Concierge
    My family and I had…

    Jul 17, 2025
    linsshirl
    An Incredible Tour to Book – two places in one day! Amazing Guides and Service!
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day…