Category: Uncategorized

  • Nagano in Half a Day: Zenkoji Temple & Chusha

    Nagano in Half a Day: Zenkoji Temple & Chusha

    Nagano Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    March, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 13:00 Meet at Shimizuya Ryokan
    • 13:05 Zenkoji Temple
    • 13:45 Take a taxi to Togakushi
    • 14:30 Okusha Entrance
    • 14:50 Zuishinmon Gate, cedar tree-lined path
    • 15:25 Okusha Entrance
    • 15:30 Soba no Mi
    • 16:00 Chusha
    • 16:20 Chusha Daimon
    • 17:30 Disperse at Nagano Station

    Title: What's a Private Day Tour to Togakushi Shrine and Soba from Nagano Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guest was a visitor from Asia who came to Japan for a snowboarding trip. After enjoying snowboarding at various ski resorts such as Myoko and Nozawa Onsen, the guest continued alone to Nagano, planning to stay overnight and then return home via Tokyo. This time, the Special Requirement noted a wish to eat Togakushi soba, so knowing the destination and desired activity in advance made it easy to accept the assignment. At the guest's request, we used a taxi on the way there and a bus on the way back. The guest was delighted to see the shrine and the cedar-lined path covered in deep snow. The guest also enjoyed the Togakushi soba with great curiosity and seemed very satisfied.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusChusha Daimon～Nagano Station1,350JPY
    Total1,350JPY

    Tour Report by Emi

    Nice to meet you. My name is Emi F., and I am a licensed guide interpreter specializing in English. I was born and have lived and worked in Nagano, where I am especially knowledgeable about the northern, eastern, and central regions of the prefecture. After retiring early from a career in teaching, I began working as a guide interpreter in 2021. Since then, I have had the pleasure of guiding many visitors to some of my favorite places, including Nagano, Matsushiro, Togakushi, Matsumoto, Azumino, Yamanouchi, Obuse, Nozawa-onsen, Suzaka, and Karuizawa, among others. I have a deep appreciation for the diverse foods harvested in Nagano and am committed to providing a flexible and enjoyable experience for my guests. Additionally, upon request, I can also guide you in Kanazawa, Nagoya, Nara, and Kyoto. I look forward to the opportunity to meet you and to share a memorable and enjoyable tour together.

    Request Booking

    Mar 21, 2026
    Cengiz_S
    Viator review: Nagano All Must-Sees 4hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Recommend this tour without any hesitation!
    We’re really enjoyed this…

    Apr 3, 2025
    R
    Robert_C
    Emi was a great guide who…
    Viator review: Nagano All Must-Sees 4hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Emi was a…

    Jun 8, 2024
    James_M
    Beautiful afternoon with a private tour of Nagano!
    Viator review: Nagano All Must-Sees Half Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We…

  • Kyoto: Kawaramachi & Kintetsu Nara

    Kyoto: Kawaramachi & Kintetsu Nara

    Nara Day Trip from Kyoto: Customized Tour, Licensed Guide

    March, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Hotel
    • 8:46-9:10-9:55 Kawaramachi→Kyoto→Nishinokyo
    • 10:00-10:35 Yakushiji Temple
    • 10:44-11:01 Nishinokyo→Kintetsu Nara
    • 11:15-11:45 Kofukuji Temple & National Treasure Museum
    • 12:00-12:50 Lunch (Ichijo Higashimukidori Store)
    • 13:00-13:20 Kasuga Taisha Shrine
    • 13:20-13:40 Walking toward Todaiji Temple
    • 13:40-14:30 Todaiji Nandaimon Gate, Todaiji Museum, Todaiji Great Buddha Hall
    • 15:10-16:18-16:19 Kintetsu Nara→Shijo→Kawaramachi
    • 16:30 Hotel

    What's a Private Day Trip from Nara to Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guest was a person from North America traveling solo. Given that they had participated in the Tokyo Marathon the previous week and were a strong walker, I planned an itinerary involving a lot of walking: Hotel → travel toward Nara by limited express train → Yakushi-ji Temple → Kofuku-ji Temple and its National Treasure Museum → lunch → Kasuga Taisha Shrine → the Nandaimon Gate of Todai-ji Temple → the Todai-ji Museum → the Great Buddha Hall → travel toward Kyoto by limited express train → Hotel. At each site, the guest appeared to appreciate the beauty of the architecture and Buddhist statues. It was also memorable to see them praying according to proper etiquette at Yakushi-ji and Kasuga Taisha. For lunch, I guided them to a restaurant, where they enjoyed a set meal of pork cutlet and tempura along with chilled sake. The train rides between Kyoto and Nara were long, and with just the guest and guide one-on-one, conversation flourished on many topics. To the guest, Japanese society appeared to be functioning well in many respects, and they praised the reliability and comfort of the railway system, the quality of food and service, the politeness of people, the peaceful nature of religious practice, and the atmosphere in which people's behavior seemed based on respect. On the other hand, they also asked about Japan's politics, economy, energy, and society, so I explained that there is a sense of stagnation, including distrust of politicians, a lack of innovation, declining competitiveness across industries, chronic labor shortages, and the difficulty of expanding renewable energy due to geographical conditions. Even so, Japan still seemed to them to be a harmonious, stable, and good society compared with their own.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto Kawaramachi～Karasuma170JPY
    Section 2SubwayShijo～Kyoto220JPY
    Section 3TrainKyoto～Nishinokyo760JPY
    Section 4TrainNishinokyo～Kintetsu Nara300JPY
    Section 5BusTodaiji Daibutsuden-mae～Kintetsu Nara100JPY
    Section 6TrainKintetsu Nara～Kyoto760JPY
    Section 7SubwayKyoto～Shijo220JPY
    Section 8TrainKarasuma～Kyoto Kawaramachi170JPY
    Total2,700JPY

    Tour Report by Masaki

    My name is Masaki Kitagawa, a male in the middle of 50s living in Kyoto with my wife, son and three cats. While working for a local energy company on weekdays, I’ve been a tour guide on weekends since 2019 and enjoy interacting with people coming from different worlds. It is my great pleasure to help you make your excursion time-efficient and pleasant even during the high seasons in Kyoto. Considering your interests, preferences and priorities, I want to design and make your journey fruitful one. I’m thrilled to be contacted from you. Let’s explore Kyoto !

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    Jun 3, 2026
    Nikki G
    Wonderful experience with a great guide!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Masaki was our guide through…

    May 24, 2026
    Pamela_C
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Perfect day in Kyoto with the best guide!…

    May 4, 2026
    TravelersHigh77
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Excellent English speaking guide for Kyoto
    Masaki was s wonderful and patient…

    Nov 29, 2025
    vsairamkumar
    Kyoto guided tour
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had great fun exploring Kyoto with Masaki San.…

  • Osaka in Half a Day: Osaka Castle & Shitennoji Temple

    Osaka in Half a Day: Osaka Castle & Shitennoji Temple

    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    March, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00 Meet @ Sotetsu Fresa Inn Osaka Namba Eki-mae
    • 11:45 @ Osaka Castle (exterior only)
    • 13:45 @ Shitennoji Temple
    • 15:00 Dismissal @ JR Tennoji Station

    What Is a Private One-Day Osaka Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Osaka Castle and Shitennoji The guests were visitors from Asia. The itinerary was not finalized until the day before the tour, when confirmation was finally received. After visiting the first spot of the day, Osaka Castle, the guests requested a change to the itinerary, and we decided to visit Shitennoji Temple instead. It was difficult to fully understand the guests' interests throughout the tour. At each spot, they took many photos and appeared very satisfied. In particular, they were delighted by the panoramic view of the castle from the rooftop of "Miraiza" at Osaka Castle. Since the following day was their final day and they would be returning home from Tokyo, they were undecided about whether to travel to Tokyo by rail or by air, so we checked the time and cost of the Shinkansen at the "Midori no Madoguchi" ticket office at JR Tennoji Station. After the tour, the guests wished to enjoy shopping in Shinsaibashi, so we parted ways at JR Tennoji Station.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayNamba～Morinomiya240JPY
    Section 2TrainMorinomiya～Tennoji170JPY
    Total410JPY

    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

    Request Booking

    Sep 27, 2026
    Ross_W
    Fun with Hidden Gems
    Viator review: Osaka Hidden Gems Off the Beaten Path Tour, Licensed Guide
    Our guide Yama was so…

    Aug 10, 2026
    Sez042
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Great experience
    Yama was great, he showed us around and explained…

    Jul 25, 2026
    Hdixjdixj
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Local Food & Culture Tour in 1 Day, Licensed Guide
    Amazing Food Tour through Osaka
    We were taken…

    Jul 20, 2026
    Eric_W
    Viator review: Himeji Castle & Koko-en in 1 Day Tour with Licensed Guide
    Castle journey worth your time!
    Our tour with…

  • Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    March, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • AM 9:00 Start from Hotel
    • AM 9:15 Take the hotel shuttle bus to Kanazawa Station
    • AM 9:30-9:45 Move to Higashi Chaya District by bus
    • AM 9:45- AM 10:30 Higashi Chaya District/Utasu Shrine/ Gold Leaf Sakuda (viewing the final process)
    • AM 10:30-AM 11:00 Move to Kenrokuen by bus
    • AM 11:00-PM 11:50 Kenrokuen tour
    • AM11:50-PM12:10 Move to Korinbo by bus
    • PM 12:10- PM 13:10 Nagamachi Samurai District (visit the Nomura Family, Takada Family, Ashigaru Museum)
    • PM 13:10 Tour ends at the Ashigaru Museum

    What Is a 4-Hour Private Tour in Japan Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe, and they mentioned how much they appreciated feeling safe no matter which city in Japan they visited. They seemed quite interested in Japanese culture, and asked many questions throughout the tour. Since it was a 4-hour tour and the hotel was located away from public transportation, requiring the use of a shuttle bus, I made sure to carefully confirm with the guests before departure both the places we would visit during the tour and the additional destinations they wished to visit on their own afterward, so that they could make effective use of their day. This [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) private tour was planned with the goal of helping the guests spend their limited time efficiently.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKanazawa Station～Hashiba-cho210JPY
    Section 2BusHashiba-cho～Kenrokuen-shita210JPY
    Section 3BusHirosaka～Korinbo210JPY
    Section 4BusKorinbo～Kanazawa Station210JPY
    Total840JPY

    Tour Report by YOSHI

    Hello , My name is Hideharu Yoshino . Just call me” Yoshi” .
    I have been involved with many foreign Business partners through my business life for 38 years ,
    Based on my work experience , I would like to try my best to make you comfortale and Happy fruitful times during your stay in Japan .
    Not only giving you basic tourist information about famous sightseeing spot , also I would enjoy to give you the back ground inofrmation in my word.
    ” Once in a lifetime encounter ” Let’s enjoy with me Miracle time to be picked up from 6 billion in somewhere Japan!

    Request Booking

    Sep 29, 2026
    matthewsY2654UC
    Highly recommended!
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Yoshi is an exceptional guide where he took us…

    Sep 28, 2026
    751juergend
    Perfect day in Kanazawa
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Yoshi was the perfect guide, very…

    Sep 27, 2026
    karen_f
    YOSHI san was incredible!
    Viator review: Kanazawa Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    YOSHI met us at our…

    Sep 19, 2026
    Plumb72
    A morning in Kanazawa
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We had a fab tour with Yoshi…

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

    Kyoto in One Day: Fushimi Inari & Kiyomizu-dera

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    March, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:20 Meet at Kyoto Station Shinkansen exit
    • 9:35 Fushimi Inari
    • 11:00 Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
    • 11:40 Short break
    • 12:35 Kinkaku-ji
    • 14:00 Yasaka Pagoda
    • 14:30. Kiyomizu-dera
    • 15:00 Travel to Kyoto Station by taxi
    • 15:20 See off to Shinkansen entrance and end of tour

    What Can You See on a 6-Hour Private Kyoto Tour Before a 4 PM Bullet Train? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan from North America. They had previously lived in Tokyo for six years and this was their second visit to Kyoto. Since their return bullet train was already booked for 4:00 PM, we only had about 6 hours and 40 minutes, so we walked around at a fairly quick pace. Everyone was very cooperative. In particular, one of the guests was kind enough to buy and cover all the transportation costs in advance, which was very helpful. It was a little cold in the morning, but the weather was nice and the temperature gradually rose, making for a comfortable tour. Just as we finished at Kiyomizu-dera, it started to rain a little, but it had no impact. Since there was not much time left at Kiyomizu-dera, I consulted with the guests and we decided not to go inside, but simply to walk around the surrounding area and take photos. We split into two taxis and returned to Kyoto Station, where the tour ended. The photo was taken at the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto～Inari150JPY
    Section 2TrainInari～Saga-Arashiyama240JPY
    Section 3TrainRanden Arashiyama～Kitano-Hakubaicho250JPY
    Section 4BusKitano-Hakubaicho～Kinkakuji-michi230JPY
    Section 5BusKinkakuji-michi～Nishioji-Oike230JPY
    Section 6SubwayNishioji-Oike～Higashiyama260JPY
    Section 7BusHigashiyama-Sanjo～Kiyomizu-michi230JPY
    Section 8OtherGojozaka～Kyoto Station Hachijo Exit0JPY
    Total1,590JPY

    Tour Report by KAZU

    I was born and grew up in Kyoto and now live near Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto. I used to be a schoolteacher of English and welcome a lot of students from foreign countries. I really enjoyed showing them around Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, Himeji, and Hiroshima. I have been a professional tour guide for about 8 years. I always try to let my guests learn Japanese traditional and modern culture. Since I was born in Kyoto, I know a lot about its culture and people. I myself enjoyed several sports, such as soccer, judo, and marathon when I was young. I’m much interested in baseball and sumo. My motto as a tour guide is to let my guests learn about our tradition and culture precisely and really enjoy themselves. I strongly hope you will enjoy the tour in Japan with me.

    Request Booking

    Sep 28, 2026
    Miguel_E
    Amazing Service
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had a wonderful time with Kazuo.…

    Sep 27, 2026
    T
    TrailBlazer47194
    Kazuo Sumi is a great guide.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Our guide Kazuo Sumi…

    Sep 1, 2026
    Steve6172014
    Excellent tour of Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had a great tour…

    Aug 7, 2026
    Pascale_Q
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Very good private tour of Kyoto with Kazuo
    We had…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    March, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 10:00 Meet at Waves Nakameguro
    • 2. 10:30 Tsukiji
    • 3. 12:00 Asakusa
    • 4. 13:00 Lunch (Tsukishima Monja Okoge Asakusa Branch)
    • 5. 14:30 Yanaka
    • 6. 15:00 Nezu Shrine
    • 7. 16:00 Shibuya
    • 8. 16:15 Disband at Shibuya

    What's a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Like? Tsukiji, Asakusa, Yanaka, and Shibuya with a Licensed Guide The guests were a group from Europe, totaling four people. They arrived in Japan in late February, traveled through Osaka, Kyoto, Fukui, and other areas, and enjoyed skiing and snowboarding in Hakuba before heading to Tokyo. One member of the group had been working part-time as a snowboarding instructor in Hakuba. The group was scheduled to return home two days after this tour. I guided them through Tsukiji, Asakusa, Yanaka, Nezu Shrine, and Shibuya. One of the guests had hurt their back while snowboarding, and although they said walking was not a problem, I made sure they sat down whenever possible, such as on trains. At the sightseeing spots, they listened to the explanations, took photos, and enjoyed themselves. This time, the lunch choice ended up being less than ideal. On the day of the tour, one of the guests mentioned a dietary preference, and we went to a restaurant in Asakusa that could accommodate it, but unfortunately it was closed for the day. We then checked whether a nearby monjayaki restaurant could accommodate it and went in, but the English menu did not have detailed descriptions, and my own confirmation at the time of ordering was insufficient, so the dish we ordered contained pork. It was removed and re-cooked, and the guest was able to eat it, but I should have double-checked at the time of ordering. The food also took a while to arrive, which caused a slight delay in the rest of the schedule. I keenly felt the need to keep a wide range of options for lunch locations.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassNakameguro～Tsukiji600JPY
    Section 2Free PassTsukiji～Asakusa0JPY
    Section 3Free PassAsakusa～Ueno0JPY
    Section 4TrainUeno～Nippori146JPY
    Section 5Free PassNezu～Shibuya0JPY
    Total746JPY

    Tour Report by Haru

    Hello, I’m Haruhiko Yokota, a certified tour guide based in Tokyo and a top-ranked guide registered with JGA Inc. Please feel free to call me Haru.
    I’ve been living in Tokyo for about 30 years and conducted close to 200 tours between 2023 and 2025. I’m very familiar with most major sightseeing spots in and around Tokyo, ranging from traditional temples and shrines to modern attractions. I also enjoy traveling throughout Japan, which has given me extensive knowledge of popular destinations across the country.
    I’m happy to customize your tour to match your interests and preferences. If you have any requests or questions, please don’t hesitate to ask. I’ll do my best to make your tour both enjoyable and memorable!

    Request Booking

    Sep 29, 2026
    S77OGjoyh
    Excellent Guided walking tour of temple, shrine and outdoor food market Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day…

    Sep 16, 2026
    Kerry_M
    10/10 tour with Haruhiko Yokota
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We toured Tokyo with Haruhiko Yokota…

    Jul 13, 2026
    529gregj
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Haru is an excellent guide in Tokyo
    Haru (Haruhiko…

    Jul 12, 2026
    Felice R
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Touring gardens in Tokyo with the perfect guide , Haru…

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Hiroshima Peace Park

    Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Hiroshima Peace Park

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

    March, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:30 Meet at Hiroshima Station
    • 10:30 Miyajima
    • 13:30 Lunch
    • 14:30 Hiroshima Peace Park
    • 17:00 Atomic Bomb Dome, Dismissal

    Title: What's a Private Tour of Miyajima and Hiroshima Peace Park Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Tour Report Date of tour: 2025/03 Places visited: Miyajima, Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park Guests: The guests Weather: Sunny Experiences: Itsukushima Shrine, worship etiquette : Daishoin Temple, kaidan-meguri (dark passage pilgrimage) : Stroll along Maple Road : Moment of silence in remembrance at Peace Memorial Park Details: The guests were a group visiting from North America. One of the guests seemed less comfortable with English, so another member of the group re-interpreted in Portuguese. They were very energetic and had just run a marathon. At first they appeared quite shy, but after the flute performance ended they began to speak to me actively in very simple English. Once things reached that point, all I could do was respond to their enthusiasm, and we enjoyed a lively cross-cultural exchange using a flexible, all-out communication method combining gestures, expressions, and quick wit. ^_−☆ The photo shows the newly completed taxi stand at the south exit of Hiroshima Station.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHiroshima Station～Miyajimaguchi Station420JPY
    Section 2TrainMiyajimaguchi Station～Nishi-Hiroshima Station330JPY
    Section 3BusNishi-Hiroshima Station～Hiroshima Peace Park240JPY
    Total990JPY

    Tour Report by Yuji

    Originally, I’m a cycling guide doing cycling tours all over Japan.
    But, already done Hiroshima & Miyajima tour more than 400 times.
    I traveled many countries in my younger days. I traveled Europe, US, China, India, US, Mexico, Peru Australia, NZ, and so on.
    I decided to use this experience to become a guide.
    I’m afraid but no tipping required, because cycling guides are not allowed to have tipping in my association. And you do not need to pay for my lunch, because my lunch is prepared by our group.
    Please do not hesitate to ask me anything, I’ll change the plan according to your requests.
    Thank you for your understanding and please stay connected.

    Request Booking

    Jun 1, 2026
    John_W
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    A top day with a top guide
    My wife…

    May 27, 2026
    Annabelle_C
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Hiroshima in a day
    Yuji was a great communicator…

    May 12, 2026
    satishp656
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    HIROSHIMA HALF DAY TOUR
    Yuji is a warm, knowledgeble…

    May 10, 2026
    StephanieB6076
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Incredible Experience
    We had an incredible experience visiting Hiroshima…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Departure: Tochomae Station & Shinjuku Station

    Tokyo in One Day: Departure: Tochomae Station & Shinjuku Station

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    March, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:30 Meeting place: The Hyatt Regency Tokyo
    • 10:40 Departure: Tochomae Station
    • (Toei Subway Oedo Line)
    • 11:10 Arrive at Tsukiji Market Station
    • Tsukiji Tsukiji Outer Market
    • Tsukiji Uogashi
    • 12:00 Departure from Tsukiji Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • Ueno Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 12:30 Arrive at Asakusa Station
    • Asakusa Sensoji Temple
    • Asakusa Shrine
    • Nakamise-dori Shopping Street
    • 13:30 Departure from Asakusa Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Omotesando Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • 14:00 Arrive at Meiji-jingumae Station
    • Harajuku Meiji Shrine
    • Takeshita Street
    • 15:00 Departure from Harajuku Station
    • (JR Yamanote Line)
    • 15:10 Arrive at Shibuya Station
    • Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • Hachiko Statue
    • 16:00 Departure from Shibuya Station
    • (JR Yamanote Line)
    • 16:15 Shinjuku Station
    • (Toei Subway Oedo Line)
    • 16:15 Arrive at Tochomae Station
    • Tochomae Tokyo Metropolitan Government Observatory
    • 17:00 Dismissal: Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building

    Title: What's a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tsukiji, Asakusa, Harajuku, Shibuya, and the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from North America. The main purpose of this trip was a two-week cruise from Singapore to the Port of Yokohama. Before boarding, they came to Japan, staying in Tokyo for a few days, after which they planned to head from Haneda Airport to Singapore to board the ship. They had arrived at Narita Airport the previous day and taken a taxi to their hotel. The previous evening, they enjoyed yakiniku in Shinjuku. The following day, they planned to visit the Imperial Palace and then take a round trip on the Shinkansen between Tokyo Station and Yokohama Station ("We really wanted to ride the Shinkansen," they said). The tour took place under clear skies but in cold, windy weather. First, we headed to Tsukiji, which was as crowded as ever. I explained "the history of Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple," "the history of the fish market since the Edo period," and "the difference between Toyosu Market and the Tsukiji Outer Market." We browsed various shops, and they purchased "wasabi peanuts." They also bought and sampled "strawberry-filled mochi." They asked, "Why are there so many people here?" and "Do all Tokyo residents come here to buy fish?" We moved on to Asakusa. I explained "the history of Senso-ji Temple and of Edo becoming Tokyo," "what a five-story pagoda is," and "the difference between Buddhism and Shinto." They asked questions such as "Do all Japanese people believe in Buddhism?", "What kind of teaching is Buddhism?", and "How do Shinto and Buddhism differ?" The Nakamise shopping street was very crowded, as always. For some reason, they had several old 100-yen banknotes, and at a bank they exchanged them for 100-yen coins. We moved on to Harajuku. I explained "what Shinto is," "the difference between Buddhism and Shinto," and "the history of Edo and the Meiji Restoration." They remarked, "It's wonderful that there is such a green park in the center of the city." We also strolled along Takeshita Street. We moved on to Shibuya, and I explained "the history of Shibuya." We crossed at Shibuya Scramble Square and took commemorative photos in front of the Hachiko statue. They said, "We really want to go up to the observation deck of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building," so we moved to the building. Amid a large crowd, we lined up and went up to the observation deck. They were able to see Mount Fuji and were very satisfied. They said, "Now I really understand how vast and spread out Tokyo is." They also commented, "Japanese people are all so polite," "Why aren't there any trash cans?", "Japan's public restrooms are so clean and pleasant," and "There don't seem to be any homeless people." We parted ways on the first floor of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building.

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    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayTochomae Station～Tsukiji Market Station272JPY
    Section 2SubwayTsukiji Station～Asakusa Station209JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa Station～Meiji-jingumae Station252JPY
    Section 4TrainHarajuku Station～Shibuya Station146JPY
    Section 5TrainShibuya Station～Shinjuku Station167JPY
    Section 6SubwayShinjuku Station～Tochomae Station178JPY
    Total1,224JPY

    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.

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    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 Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    March, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00 Hotel – 11:40 Tokyo Station – 12:00 Imperial Palace Kikyomon Gate – 12:30 Tsukiji Outer Market – 13:00 Lunch – 14:20 Asakusa Sensoji Temple – 15:20 Kaminarimon Gate Dismissal

    Title: What Can You See on a Private One-Day Tour of Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide led a private one-day tour of Tokyo for a group visiting Japan for the first time from North America. The cheerful group made it a delightful tour from the very start. From their hotel, we passed through Tokyo Station on our way to the Outer Gardens of the Imperial Palace. The guests admired the contrast between the historic Tokyo Station building and the modern skyscrapers of Otemachi and Marunouchi, as well as the striking difference between these contemporary buildings and the former Edo Castle grounds that make up the Imperial Palace today. At Tsukiji, after a brief stroll through the Outer Market, we headed straight to a long-established sushi restaurant for lunch, where the guests enjoyed authentic sushi. In Asakusa, they purchased traditionally crafted knives and had several pairs of chopsticks engraved with names as souvenirs, before we returned to the hotel.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShimbashi～Tokyo146JPY
    Section 2SubwayOtemachi～Tsukiji178JPY
    Section 3SubwayTsukiji～Asakusa209JPY
    Total533JPY

    Tour Report by Michio

    Welcome to Japan. My name is Michio, your tour guide in Tokyo and Japan. I was born and grown up in Tokyo, and still living in western suburb of Tokyo with my wife, except for 10 years outside of Japan travelling and living in 60 countries. So I might have visited your country and still remember a few words.
    Japan has unique history, nature and culture, and there are plenty of secrets and wonders behind them such as food culture, Zen and Ninja.
    So please explore and discover the hidden and most beautiful part of Japan together. Let’s experience!

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    Oct 25, 2025
    Carla_G
    Our 4-hour Tokyo walking…
    Viator review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our 4-hour Tokyo walking tour was fantastic! Michio…

    Oct 24, 2025
    410trishab
    ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 10/10 — Outstanding Tour with Michio and Nobuhiko!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Full Day Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle from…

    Oct 11, 2025
    GoPlaces52694049181
    We enjoyed our time in Tokyo with Michio our tour guide.
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We…

    Oct 10, 2025
    PiscesV
    Sushi for breakfast at 630am? Yes please!!
    Tripadvisor review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Grand Nikko Odaiba

    Tokyo in One Day: Grand Nikko Odaiba

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    March, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:30 Grand Nikko Odaiba → 11:35 Statue of Liberty and Cherry Blossoms → Rinkai Line → 12:15 Shibuya Scramble Crossing and Hachiko → 12:40-14:00 Lunch → Shinjuku 14:30-15:15 Metropolitan Government Building Observatory, 15:30 3D Cat, Godzilla, 16:00-16:30 Golden Gai, 16:40-17:10 A drink at Omoide Yokocho → Hotel by taxi 18:00

    What's a Private Walking Tour of Shibuya and Shinjuku Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. The guided tour was a gift from a family member living in Europe. They were scheduled to join a two-week tour starting the next day, and wanted to visit Shibuya and Shinjuku—especially Golden Gai—since those places were not included in that tour. As it was a special commemorative trip, I arranged a message plate at lunch, which they were very happy with. Since Golden Gai was crowded, we had a drink at Omoide Yokocho instead. I had been a little concerned about the amount of walking, but there were no problems and we walked about six miles.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainTokyo Teleport～Shibuya502JPY
    Section 2TrainShibuya～Shinjuku167JPY
    Total669JPY

    Tour Report by Maki

    Hello!
    I’m Maki. Nice to meet you.
    I used to work at a travel agency as a tour escort so I have traveled to more than 50 countries and all 47 prefectures in Japan.
    When I came back to Japan from abroad, I always noticed virtues in Japan anew.
    I’m thrilled to introduce such kinds of stories and favorite places to you.
    I like bar hopping, cooking, history, and outdoor activities such as camping, cycling.
    I have a licence of International Sake Sommlier and Wine Expert. I’m happy if I would have a chance to introduce you about sake and wine.
    I’m also a mother of junior high school girl. Let’s have fun together!

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    Oct 9, 2025
    301catherinep
    Fabulous customised tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Maki is a wonderful, well informed guide. She customised…

    Oct 2, 2025
    Gene L
    Our 6 hour tour with Maki was fantastic
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    My wife and…

    Aug 31, 2025
    T
    tmay2921
    Maki is the best!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had an absolutely wonderful day exploring…

    Jul 12, 2025
    O6400ONsaram
    Maki san kakkoii desu
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Maki was generous and flexible! She met us…