Category: Uncategorized

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    November, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:40 Meet at Hotel Granvia Kyoto, depart by private car　➡　Arashiyama (Tenryu-ji Garden→Bamboo Grove→Kameoka Park→Togetsukyo Bridge)➡　Kinkaku-ji Temple　➡　Lunch at Nishiki Market　➡　Nijo Castle　➡　Disband at the hotel (16:40)

    What's a Rainy-Day Private Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Arashiyama, Kinkakuji, and Nijo Castle The guests were a group visiting Kyoto for the first time from North America, having just arrived. Because the forecast called for clouds in the morning and heavy rain in the afternoon, [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide planned to visit Arashiyama in the morning so the group could enjoy the beautiful autumn foliage. At Tenryuji Temple's garden and across the mountains of Arashiyama, the autumn colors were well advanced, and the guests seemed very satisfied with the beautiful scenery. Afterward, we went to Kinkakuji Temple, where the garden was also beautifully colored with autumn leaves and the guests enjoyed the visit. We had planned to head to Ginkakuji Temple next, but heavy rain began to fall, so we had lunch at Nishiki Market (a beef restaurant) and finally toured the Ninomaru Palace at Nijo Castle. It was a good decision to visit Arashiyama for the autumn foliage in the morning. The guests were very pleased.

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

    Tour Report by Emi

    Hello! I’m Emi (meaning “smile” or “laugh” in Japanese) , born, raised, and living in Osaka for more than half a century. I’ve been working as a government-licensed tour guide since 2018 after early retirement from a company. My favorite things are hiking, cooking, eating, laughing, learning different cultures, jazz, playing the chromatic harmonica, etc.
    I’ll provide you with a few suggested itineraries first, but of course I’ll be happy to provide you with a flexible itinerary according to your preferences and requests and to help you enjoy your stay in Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, Kobe, etc. I can also offer a tour visiting not only popular destinations but also hidden or less-crowded places.
    I’m looking forward to meeting and guiding you!!

    Request Booking

    Jul 17, 2026
    TROY_R
    Viator review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    This was a perfect tour…
    This was a perfect tour of…

    Sep 18, 2025
    L9831WKjenniferb
    4 hour Kyoto tour with English speaking guide
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Lovely afternoon with English…

    Aug 15, 2025
    SuperGC68
    Great value
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a two day 6hr tour with our guide…

    Jul 4, 2025
    Inspire64445626178
    Delightful day with Emi
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a delightful day with our guide…

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Peace Memorial Museum & Hiroshima Castle

    Hiroshima in One Day: Peace Memorial Museum & Hiroshima Castle

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

    November, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 7:30　Meet at the hotel
    • 7:45　Peace Memorial Museum
    • 9:00　Walking through Peace Park, guiding through the Cenotaph for the A-bomb Victims, the Flame of Peace, the Children's Peace Monument, the Atomic Bomb Dome, the hypocenter, and more
    • 11:00　Arrive at Miyajima
    • 11:30　Lunch
    • 12:20　Itsukushima Shrine
    • 13:20　Daiganji Temple
    • 14:30　Hiroshima Castle
    • 15:10　End of tour

    Title: What Is a Rainy-Day Private Tour of Hiroshima and Miyajima Like? A Licensed Guide's Report [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide led a full-day private tour of Hiroshima and Miyajima for a group visiting from Oceania. I had sent emails over the previous two weeks without any reply and was quite worried, but we finally got in touch the day before — it turned out my emails had been treated as spam 😂. The forecast called for rain all day, so we set out prepared with umbrellas and ponchos. While I was guiding through the Peace Memorial Museum and the Peace Park, including the Atomic Bomb Dome, the Cenotaph for the A-bomb victims, and the hypocenter, the rain began to fall. By the time we arrived at Miyajima and enjoyed spending time with the deer, the rain grew steadily heavier. As soon as lunch was over, a "heavy rain advisory was issued for Miyajima." After just a ten-minute walk to Itsukushima Shrine, we had leaks overhead, and our socks, shoes, and trousers were soaked through 😓. Even so, the guests took it positively, saying, "This will be an unforgettable memory." Their smiles saved the day. We gave up on going inside Hiroshima Castle and ended the tour there. It was a wonderful group.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHondori～Shin-Hakushima190JPY
    Section 2TrainShin-Hakushima～Miyajimaguchi330JPY
    Section 3TrainMiyajimaguchi～Yokogawa330JPY
    Total850JPY

    Tour Report by Shuji

    My name is Shuji, meaning “Excellent Manager” in English. I was born in Hiroshima 1952. I have 2 children and 3 grandchildren.
    After graduating Kyoto Univ. I joined Mitsubishi-UFJ Bank, Osaka Branch where I met my wife who was a master of Englsih, so I started studying English.
    The bank allowed me to go to Columbia Graduate business school in New York and got MBA Degree there. I worked in London and Manchester Branch.
    During staying in U.K., I was introduced by BBC and Financial Times News Paper about my achievement there. I was selected as a personal assistant and interpreter for the President of the Bank.
    I made many business trips with him to overseas countries. I experienced as an interpreter for meeting late Henry Kissinger and the President of Citi. Corp.
    I changed the job to ORIX corporation, there I was promoted to a Board Member. When the company had acquired Dutch company, I was a member as an accountant to check the Dutch company’s statements of accounts.
    My hobbies are cooking, singing a song, playing tennis & golf, enjoy seeing arts especially opera & musical, travel. I am also busy with taking care of grandchildren. I passed Government Licensed Guide Exam. in 2016. After I retired in 2017, I started guide job as a part timer. So far, I accomplished guide job more than 500 times.
    My area coverage is from Tokyo, Hakone, Kamakura, Mt. Fuji to Kyoto, Nara, Oaka, Hiroshima. I am also able to guide Tea Ceremony, Maiko/Geisha, Sushi Making, Calligraphy, Sumo, Samurai, etc. I can speak excellent English. My knowledge is very wide and deep about not only sightseeing places but Japanese History, Culture, Religion, Daily Life. I know many foreign countries and people. I love talking with all kinds of people including babies with interesting humor.
    By the way, I look young for my age of 74.

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    Jul 16, 2026
    salomons666
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto fun
    Amazing with our guide Shuji very kind and acknowledge

    Jul 15, 2026
    P9099TXkennethr
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    A great day
    A great day in the Company of mr. Shuji.

    Jun 28, 2026
    A
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    AmyfromPlano
    Shuji is the best! Once we booked this tour, he reached…

    Jun 22, 2026
    yeseniag981
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 6hr Private Walking Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Osaka Tour
    Our tour guide Shuji was amazing. He was…

  • Nara Day Trip from Kyoto: Customized Tour

    Nara Day Trip from Kyoto: Customized Tour

    Nara Day Trip from Kyoto: Customized Tour, Licensed Guide

    November, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:20 Meet at hotel　9:37 Board JR train bound for Nara　10:21 Arrive at JR Nara　10:45 Nara Park　11:00 Todai-ji Temple　　12:10 Lunch (tonkatsu)　13:25 Kasuga Taisha Shrine　14:15 Kofuku-ji Temple Treasure House　　15:00 Naramachi (Nigiwai no Ie · Shopping)　16:37 JR Nara Station　Board train bound for Kyoto　17:23 Arrive at Kyoto Station　Tour ends

    Title: What Is a Private Nara Day Tour Like on a Rainy Day? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests visited Japan from North America. Some of the guests had visited Japan around 25 years earlier, and one had also come to Japan for work seven years ago, having lived in the Nishinomiya area, so they were quite familiar with life in Japan. Since the forecast predicted heavy rain from the afternoon, we visited Todai-ji Temple and Kasuga Taisha Shrine early and saved the Kofuku-ji Treasure Hall for later, which turned out to be the right decision. From just after 2:00 p.m., the rain became so heavy that it was impossible to walk without an umbrella. The guests enjoyed sightseeing, eating, and walking, but seemed to have less interest in the historical details, perhaps because they already had prior knowledge. The group was very easygoing and considerate throughout. The photo was taken at a tonkatsu restaurant where we had lunch.

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

    Transportation cost per person

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

    Tour Report by KAZU

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

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

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

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

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

  • Tokyo in One Day: Hama Rikyu Garden & Meiji Jingu Shrine

    Tokyo in One Day: Hama Rikyu Garden & Meiji Jingu Shrine

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    November, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:50Meet at Toei Asakusa Line Shimbashi Station
    • 10:00 Hama Rikyu Garden
    • 12:00 Ginza
    • 12:30 Lunch at Tendon Ramen Hageten Ginza Branch
    • 13:30 Imperial Palace Outer Garden
    • 14:00 Ueno Ameyoko, Ueno Park
    • 15:10 Meiji Jingu Shrine
    • 16:10 Tour ends at JR Harajuku Station

    What Does a Private Tokyo Day Tour Include? A Licensed Guide's Report on the Imperial Palace, Meiji Shrine, and Ueno The guests were a group visiting from Oceania. Since they had already visited Asakusa, Tsukiji, and Tokyo Tower, I arranged an itinerary combining the Imperial Palace, Meiji Shrine, and Hamarikyu Gardens. For lunch in Ginza, we had tendon at a shop where you purchase meal tickets to pay. As it is a small shop, a line formed once our group entered. They seemed very satisfied. The Imperial Palace East Gardens were closed on Tuesday this week as well. Since the guests wished to buy some small souvenirs, I added a visit to Ueno on short notice and guided them to Ameyoko. It was tight on time, but we also strolled through Ueno Park. After Meiji Shrine, rather than going to Takeshita Street, I explained how to get back to their hotel from the station and ended the tour. The guests were all delighted and said they had a wonderful time.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShimbashi～Ginza178JPY
    Section 2TrainGinza～Nijubashimae178JPY
    Section 3TrainOtemachi～Ueno178JPY
    Section 4TrainUeno～Meiji-jingumae209JPY
    Total743JPY

    Tour Report by Harry

    Hello there,
    I’m Harry. This nickname comes from Harry Bosch, a character in American detective novels. I like watching films, listening to music and reading books, especially detective stories. I love meeting people from different countries and would like to help them understand Japanese culture and history. I believe that tourism can connect people all over the world and change the world into something truly peaceful. I was born in Osaka and have lived in Tokyo for more than 35 years. I am very happy to welcome tourists from all over the world. I will do my best to make your days fantastic. I look forward to seeing you soon.

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    Oct 8, 2025
    Denise_M
    Great tour of Kyoto
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our guide Harry was very knowledgeable. We learned…

    Jun 30, 2025
    Iguana74
    Customized Tour of Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our four-hour private tour of Kyoto was excellent.…

    May 12, 2025
    Tonya_G
    Would do it again.
    Viator review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide from Yokohama
    Our guide, Harry, did an excellent…

    Mar 22, 2025
    Lauren_P
    We had a great time on…
    Viator review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a great time…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    November, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 9:30 Meet at the b akasaka-mitsuke
    • 2. 10:00 Tsukiji
    • 3. 11:00 Akihabara
    • 4. 11:45 Lunch (Hokkaido Akihabara Denki-gai North Exit Branch)
    • 5. 13:15 Yanaka (Yanaka Ginza Shopping Street, Hebi-michi)
    • 6. 13:45 Nezu Shrine
    • 7. 14:45 Harajuku (Takeshita Street)
    • 8. 15:30 Disband at Ginza (in front of UNIQLO Ginza Store)

    Title: What Does a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Cover? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tsukiji, Akihabara, Yanaka, and Harajuku The guests were a group visiting from Europe. They had arrived in Japan the previous day and were staying in the country for about two weeks, planning to visit the Fuji Five Lakes, Kanazawa, Kyoto, Hiroshima, and Osaka after Tokyo. I guided them around Tsukiji, Akihabara, Yanaka, Nezu Shrine, and Harajuku. At Tsukiji, they looked at the market shops with great interest. In Akihabara, I took them to an anime goods store and a well-known electronics building. They did not make any purchases today, but they browsed the products enthusiastically at both places and said they would like to come back another day to shop. At Yanaka and Nezu Shrine, they took many photos and enjoyed themselves. They took a quick look around Takeshita Street in Harajuku. During the consultation before the tour, the plan had been to go to Shinjuku and part ways there, but the guests expressed a wish to visit a clothing store in Ginza, so I guided them there and we parted ways at that point.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassAkasaka-mitsuke～Tsukiji600JPY
    Section 2Free PassTsukiji～Akihabara0JPY
    Section 3TrainAkihabara～Nippori167JPY
    Section 4Free PassNezu～Meiji-jingumae0JPY
    Section 5Free PassMeiji-jingumae～Ginza0JPY
    Total767JPY

    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

    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…

    Jul 9, 2026
    mariee530
    An incredible walking tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    This tour was beyond expectations!…

    Jun 30, 2026
    simonegN55VE
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Fabulous walking tour with Haru
    Haru was fabulous! We booked the tour…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    November, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Hotel-9:30 Meiji Shrine-11:00 Harajuku Takeshita Street-12:10 Tsukiji Outer Market-13:00 Fukagawa Fudoson-13:40 Tomioka Hachimangu Shrine-14:00 Lunch-15:00 Ginza dismissal

    What Can You See on a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from North America. During their stay in Japan, they picked up a Suica card at Shinjuku Station and began moving around smoothly. At Meiji Shrine, our first stop, there were many worshippers there for Shichi-Go-San and first shrine visits, and the guests enjoyed viewing the chrysanthemum display. The East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, which were supposed to be open, were closed and could not be entered, possibly due to the influence of an Imperial family funeral, so we moved on to Tsukiji Market. There, the guests purchased a chef's knife with a wooden handle, and they seemed to be looking forward to cooking with it after returning home. Afterward, we visited Fukagawa Fudoson and strolled around Tomioka Hachimangu Shrine, where the guests fully enjoyed the old downtown atmosphere that still retains the charm of everyday local life.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinjuku～Yoyogi146JPY
    Section 2SubwayMeiji-jingumae～Otemachi209JPY
    Section 3SubwayOtemachi～Tsukiji178JPY
    Section 4SubwayTsukijishijo～Monzen-nakacho178JPY
    Section 5SubwayMonzen-nakacho～Nihombashi178JPY
    Section 6SubwayNihombashi～Ginza178JPY
    Total1,067JPY

    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!

    Request Booking

    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: Otemachi Station & Hamamatsucho Station

    Tokyo in One Day: Otemachi Station & Hamamatsucho Station

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    November, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 12:30 Meeting place: TeamLab Planets
    • 12:40 Departure: Depart from Shin-Toyosu Station
    • (Yurikamome)
    • Toyosu Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Yurakucho Line)
    • Yurakucho Station/Hibiya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • 13:10 Arrive at Otemachi Station
    • Tokyo Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • Nijubashi Bridge
    • 14:30 Depart from Nijubashimae Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • 15:00 Arrive at Meiji-jingumae Station
    • Harajuku Meiji Shrine
    • Takeshita Street
    • 16:00 Depart from Harajuku Station
    • (JR Yamanote Line)
    • 16:15 Arrive at Shinjuku Station
    • Shinjuku Kabukicho
    • Shinjuku Golden Gai
    • Omoide Yokocho
    • 17:30 Depart from Shinjuku Station
    • (JR Yamanote Line)
    • 17:45 Arrive at Shibuya Station
    • Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • Hachiko Statue
    • Shibuya Center Street
    • 18:30 Depart from Shibuya Station
    • (JR Yamanote Line)
    • 19:00 Arrive at Hamamatsucho Station
    • 19:00 Disband: Hamamatsucho Station

    Title: What Can You See on a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group of friends from North America, all visiting Japan for the first time. This visit to Japan was for a total of two weeks. After arriving at Narita Airport, they went straight to the Kansai region, visiting Kyoto, Osaka, and Nara. They came to Tokyo the previous day. In the morning, the guests visited teamLab. Afterward, we met at its entrance. They said, "We don't need lunch. We'd like to visit as many places as possible, even if only briefly at each." It was a tour under clear skies. First, we went to the Imperial Palace. I explained topics such as "From the Edo period to the Meiji era," "About the Meiji Restoration," "Why did Edo Castle become the Imperial Palace?" and "Current challenges facing the Imperial Household." The guests remarked, "The pine trees are beautiful." They also asked questions such as "This is different from the imperial site we visited in Kyoto," and "Does the Emperor really live inside here?" Because of the closing time, we then moved to Harajuku. I again explained "About the Meiji Restoration," "About Emperor Meiji," and "Why are wine barrels displayed here?" The guests said, "It's wonderful that there is such a green place in the middle of the city. It feels great." We moved to Shinjuku. I explained "The history of Shinjuku" and "Golden Gai." The guests commented, "It has a different atmosphere from the other places." We moved to Harajuku. At Meiji Shrine, I again explained "About the Meiji Restoration," "About Emperor Meiji," and "Why are wine barrels displayed here?" The guests said, "Here too, it's wonderful that there is such a green place in the middle of the city. It feels great," and "How large is this area?" We then moved on to Shibuya. The guests experienced the Scramble Crossing. They also asked, "Why are there so many people here? Are there more Japanese people, or more tourists?" They also commented, "Everyone in Japan is truly polite," "Why are there no trash cans on the streets?" "The subway is very well made, but it's hard to understand until you get used to it," and "The public restrooms are clean and pleasant. We don't have this back home." I saw the guests off at Hamamatsucho Station, ending the tour.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherShin-Toyosu Station～Toyosu Station189JPY
    Section 2SubwayToyosu Station～Otemachi Station178JPY
    Section 3SubwayNijubashimae Station～Meiji-jingumae Station209JPY
    Section 4TrainHarajuku Station～Shinjuku Station146JPY
    Section 5TrainShinjuku Station～Shibuya Station167JPY
    Section 6TrainShibuya Station～Hamamatsucho Station208JPY
    Total1,097JPY

    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: Daiba Station & Tsukiji Station

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Departure: Daiba Station & Tsukiji Station

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    November, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meeting place: Grand Nikko Tokyo Daiba
    • 9:10 Departure: Daiba Station
    • (Yurikamome)
    • 9:30 Shimbashi Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 10:00 Arrive at Asakusa Station
    • Asakusa Sensoji Temple
    • Asakusa Shrine
    • Nakamise Shopping Street
    • 11:00 Depart Asakusa Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 11:15 Arrive at Ueno Station
    • Ueno Ueno Park
    • Ameyoko Shopping Street
    • 12:00 Depart Ueno Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • 12:15 Arrive at Tsukiji Station
    • Tsukiji Tsukiji Uogashi
    • Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 13:10 Depart Tsukiji Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 13:10 Shimbashi Station
    • (Yurikamome)
    • 13:30 Arrive at Daiba Station
    • 13:30 Dismissal: Daiba Station

    Can You Do a Half-Day Private Tokyo Tour Before a Cruise Departure? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from North America. Their main purpose was a cruise departing that evening from the Tokyo International Cruise Terminal, traveling to Japan as well as other parts of Asia. The tour was based on the idea of "seeing a bit of Tokyo before boarding," with the request to "get a general sense of Tokyo in a short time." The tour took place under clear skies. First, we went to Asakusa. We passed through the Nakamise shopping street from the Kaminarimon Gate to the main hall. It was extremely crowded. I explained about "Sensoji 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?", "What kind of teachings does Buddhism have?", "How do Shinto and Buddhism differ?", and "Why are there so many people wearing kimono?" As souvenirs for family, the guests purchased items such as chopsticks, tenugui hand towels, hats, and magnets along the Nakamise shopping street. We then moved to Ueno. I explained about the "Edo period" and the "Meiji Restoration," among other topics. There were questions such as "How large is Ueno Park?" Next was the Tsukiji Outer Market. We walked around looking at various shops, and the guests purchased sweet potato chips and wasabi peanuts. There were questions such as "Why are there so many people even on a weekday?" and "Do all Tokyo residents come here to buy fish?" There were also questions such as "What is the population of Tokyo?", "How much is housing?", and "How many people own cars?" The guests also commented, "The city is so clean. There's no litter on the ground," "There are no trash cans on the streets. Why?", "How is garbage handled in Japan?", and "The public restrooms are clean and pleasant." I saw them off at Daiba Station, where we parted ways.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherDaiba Station～Shimbashi Station325JPY
    Section 2SubwayShimbashi Station～Asakusa Station209JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa Station～Ueno Station178JPY
    Section 4SubwayUeno Station～Tsukiji Station178JPY
    Section 5SubwayTsukiji Station～Shimbashi Station178JPY
    Section 6OtherShimbashi Station～Daiba Station325JPY
    Total1,393JPY

    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 in One Day: Asakusa & Shibuya

    Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa & Shibuya

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    November, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meet up @Peninsula
    • 9:40 GHQ site ~ Imperial Palace Outer Garden ~ Nijubashi Bridge ~ Tokyo Station
    • 11:00 Asakusa (Kaminarimon Gate ~ Nakamise ~ Sensoji Temple ~ Hoppy Street)
    • 12:15 Shinjuku Gyoen (Sendagaya Gate ~ Shinjuku Gate)
    • 13:30 Meiji Shrine
    • 14:00 Lunch @Mori no Terrace
    • 14:20 Omotesando ~ Takeshita Street
    • 15:00 Shibuya (Hachiko Statue ~ Scramble Crossing ~ Shibuya Scramble Square)
    • 15: 30 Disband @Shibuya Scramble Square HANDS

    What Is a Private Full-Day Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on the Imperial Palace and Asakusa The guests were visitors from North America. One of the guests was visiting Japan for the first time, while the other had been to Japan 18 years earlier. Although the itinerary had been agreed upon before their arrival, today happened to be the day of a state funeral ceremony, so the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace were temporarily closed. Instead, I took them to the Outer Garden and Nijubashi Bridge. They seemed amazed at the vast scale of the Imperial Palace. Since today was effectively their first full day in Japan and they would be exploring Tokyo on their own for about five more days, I deliberately used the JR line for the trip from the Imperial Palace to Asakusa so they could see Akihabara Station and Ueno Station. The autumn foliage in the garden was about five days early, but some trees were still beautiful, and they enjoyed this oasis in the city. Over lunch, I introduced recommended tourist attractions to visit during the rest of their stay in Tokyo, and explained the public transportation, including how to get to the two teamLab locations they had already booked, so they could move around the city on their own.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainJR Tokyo～JR Ueno167JPY
    Section 2SubwayGinza Line Ueno～Ginza Line Asakusa178JPY
    Section 3TrainAsakusa Line Asakusa～JR Sendagaya356JPY
    Section 4TrainJR Harajuku～JR Shibuya146JPY
    Total847JPY

    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…

  • Tokyo: Toyosu Market & Tsukiji Market

    Tokyo: Toyosu Market & Tsukiji Market

    Toyosu Tuna Auction & Tsukiji Local Food Tour, Licensed Guide

    November, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 5:00 Hotel Lobby
    • 5:15 Arrive at Toyosu Market
    • 6:05 Auction tour ends
    • 6:15 Enter Daiwa Sushi
    • 7:00 Move to Tsukiji Market
    • 8:05 Disband within Tsukiji Market

    What's a Private Tokyo Tour of Toyosu and Tsukiji Fish Markets Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe. They were very lovely to guide. At first they had wished to visit a particular shop inside Toyosu Market, but after watching the tuna auction they asked to be taken to a restaurant serving top-quality tuna, so we changed our plans on the spot and I took them to a sushi restaurant. They mentioned they had previously dined at a high-end sushi restaurant abroad, so I was a little nervous about whether it would suit their taste, but they seemed thoroughly delighted, saying they had enjoyed a wonderful breakfast. After the meal, the guests wished to explore Tsukiji Market as well, so we headed there by an Uber arranged by the guests. They enjoyed strolling through the market and shopping for a kitchen knife and green tea. Since they wanted to take their time in the market, we parted ways on site at 8:05.

    Click here for more details: Toyosu Tuna Auction & Tsukiji Local Food Tour, Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Mami

    Hello!! My name is Mami. I was born and raised in Tokyo. I enjoy watching Japanese baseball games. I became a Certified guide in 2020. After the Pandemic, I resumed my guiding work in earnest, conducting approximately 80 tours in 2023 and over 100 tours in 2024. Please feel free to ask me anything about Tokyo! Not only information about tourist attractions, but I also love to eat, so I can suggest various restaurants! I live in an area called Yanesen, and the Yanesen area and Asakusa are my go-to walking areas. I also love exploring markets and discovering delicious restaurants at places like Toyosu Market and Tsukiji Market. Why don’t you come with me and walk through the small alleys that only the residents know about? I’m cheerful and can get along with anyone. Let’s have a fun trip together!

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    Mar 30, 2026
    569RickJ
    Tripadvisor review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide
    Top Notch/Highly Recommended Fish Market Tour
    This…

    Mar 13, 2026
    mchapman24
    Fish market and auction
    Tripadvisor review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide
    Fish Auction and…

    Jun 17, 2025
    Desiree_V
    Unieke ervaring
    Viator review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide
    Vroeg opstaan maar dan heb…

    May 24, 2025
    Michael_H
    Incredible Time
    Viator review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide
    This tour was amazing. Our…