Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 9:00 Meet @ Metropolitan Tokyo
    • 2. 9:40 @ Asakusa
    • 3. 11:00 Lunch @ Asakusa Kura Sushi
    • 4. 12:40 @ Shibuya
    • 5. 13:10 @ Meiji Shrine
    • 6. 14:15 @ Takeshita Street
    • 7. 15:00 @ Metropolitan Tokyo

    Title: What's a Private One-Day Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The reservation details listed one hotel, but the night before, the guests contacted me to say they were staying at a different hotel, so we arranged to meet there instead. The guests mentioned they had received a ticket showing a completely different meeting point, which had left them very confused. I explained that I was not sure how this had happened, but that I would report it. The guests were a very close and friendly group; one of them currently lives in Europe, with a background from Asia. They fully enjoyed visiting Sensoji Temple and Nakamise in Asakusa, conveyor-belt sushi, the Shibuya crossing, Meiji Shrine, and Takeshita Street. They love animals and took many photos at animal cafes and pet shops. They said that everywhere in Japan is beautiful and the food is delicious. It was a fine, sunny day. They planned to spend several days in Tokyo and then travel to Hiroshima.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainIkebukuro~Ueno178JPY
    Section 2SubwayUeno~Asakusa178JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa~Shibuya252JPY
    Section 4TrainHarajuku~Ikebukuro178JPY
    Total786JPY

    Hello, I am Fumiko, an English-speaking Tourist Guide. I have been guiding foreign visitors science 2016. Please let me know your bucket lists whiles you are staying in Japan and what you are interested in. I will make the best plan for you. This is an once in a lifetime experience for you. As for myself, I love traveling, meeting people, eating local food, drinking, history, and art. I am learning Ikebana, traditional Japanese-style flower arrangement, and tea ceremony. I also love sports, especially tennis. I like children, so I can teach them some origami, folding paper. I am looking forward to hearing from you and seeing you in Japan.

    Sep 29, 2026
    W9834MZdavidn
    First Visit to Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    We had an absolutely wonderful day…

    Sep 12, 2026
    Don_G
    Tokyo 6 hour Tour
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    We had a great time on…

    Jul 27, 2026
    zyarisa
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Fumiko tour good vibes only
    Mrs. fumiko was very…

    Jul 23, 2026
    734mortenp
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Nice tour of Tokyo
    Don’t visit Tokyo without a guide! You’ll…

  • Nagoya / Aichi Full-day Private Custom Tour with National

    Nagoya / Aichi Full-day Private Custom Tour with National

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. Meet @Nagoya Port Garden Pier 10:00
    • 2. Move to Nagoya Castle and view Honmaru Palace and the Nagoya Castle area
    • 3. Move to Tokugawaen and view Tokugawaen (Japanese Garden)
    • 4. Lunch @Hozentei (within Tokugawaen grounds)
    • 5. View the Tokugawa Art Museum
    • 6. Move to the Sakae area and view Mirai Tower and the Oasis 21 shopping area
    • 7. Return to Nagoya Port Garden Pier and disband 16:00

    Title: What's a Private One-Day Nagoya Tour from a Cruise Ship Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests arrived at the Port of Nagoya by cruise ship, and we had agreed in advance to meet at the cruise ship exit at 10:00. I arrived on site about 30 minutes early and waited, then contacted the guests via a messaging app. Confirming that the guests had already disembarked, I was able to meet them 20 minutes ahead of schedule and start the tour. At Nagoya Castle, in addition to the usual viewing course, the guests enjoyed a special camellia exhibition that had just begun that day. At Tokugawaen Garden, a special winter peony exhibition was being held with an extended period, and the guests, who were very interested in seasonal flowers, enjoyed the viewing greatly. For lunch, at Hozentei within the Tokugawaen grounds, the guests enjoyed a seasonal set course menu available only during this period, and gave the comment "perfect!" The day was blessed with fine weather like that of April, and the guests enjoyed the scenery from the observation deck of the Mirai Tower in the center of Nagoya, and were pleased with a full and eventful one-day guided tour.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayNagoyako Station~Nagoyajo Station270JPY
    Section 2SubwaySakae Station~Nagoyako Station270JPY
    Total540JPY

    Hello, guests of JGA tours, I’m Takao (Todd) Miura, a national licensed guide of Japan.
    I have experiences as a professional guide over 5 years. The themes in which I’m well versed include castles, Japaneses landscape gardens, museums, festivals, and traditinal Japanese arts and crafts.
    Nagoya City and Aichi Prefecture, where I live, have many attractive sites to visit. I would like to introduce you to the most popular sites and spots in this area.
    I really wish to have a very nice time with you as a guide of your tour in Nagoya and Aichi Prefecture.

    Feb 16, 2026
    B9190RXcolleenm
    The Nagoya walking tour was great!
    Tripadvisor review: Nagoya Half-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
    Todd was the perfect…

    Oct 2, 2025
    Jeffrey_B
    Nagoya with Todd Miura
    Viator review: Nagoya / Aichi Half-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
    A great 4 hour…

    Sep 17, 2025
    sjhppy
    Todd Was A Fabulous Guide
    Tripadvisor review: Nagoya Full-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
    I highly recommend Todd! He…

    Jul 22, 2025
    guelphturfgrassinstu
    Tripadvisor review: Nagoya Half-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
    We enjoyed this tour with a knowledgeable guide. Todd shared…

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Hotel – 10:45 East Gardens of the Imperial Palace – 12:15 Lunch – 13:15 Tsukiji Outer Market – 14:00 Ginza 4-chome, disband

    Can You Do a Private Day Tour of Tokyo's Imperial Palace East Gardens and Tsukiji Market? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan for the first time, arriving from Europe. They had arrived the day before and planned to travel for two weeks, including the Kansai region. We started by getting an unregistered PASMO card at a subway station, where the issuing procedure has become much simpler, and then began at the Imperial Palace East Gardens. The guests thoroughly enjoyed a quiet stroll through the Imperial Palace East Gardens, surrounded by the skyscrapers of Otemachi and Marunouchi, and remarked that they would love to return in spring when more flowers are in bloom. When I explained that Japan is a treasure trove of delicious restaurants, we had lunch at a long-established sushi restaurant before the Tsukiji Market tour, and the guests seemed very satisfied with the authentic sushi. As it was nearly time to finish, I took them from Tsukiji to the Shibuya-bound platform at Ginza-yonchome Station, and we parted ways there.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayAoyama-itchome~Otemachi178JPY
    Section 2SubwayOtemachi~Tsukiji178JPY
    Section 3BusTsukiji 3-chome~Ginza 4-chome210JPY
    Total566JPY

    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!

    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 Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • ①9:30 Meet at the hotel, board the taxi and head to Waters Takeshiba via the Imperial Palace
    • ②10:50〜11:30 Sumida River Cruise, take the water bus to Asakusa
    • ③11:30〜13:00 After exploring Asakusa, travel to Tokyo Station
    • ④13:30 Arrive at a restaurant inside Tokyo Station and disband

    What's a Private Tour of the Imperial Palace, Sumida River Cruise, and Asakusa Like in Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. They mentioned that they had come to Japan to take part in the Tokyo Marathon being held the following day. The day before, they had toured the Meiji Shrine and Shibuya areas by Hop On Hop Off bus. Today, we took a taxi from the Hotel to visit and photograph the Nijubashi Bridge at the Imperial Palace, which they had requested, and then moved to Waters Takeshiba. From there we boarded a water bus to Asakusa. The weather was fine, and they thoroughly enjoyed the 40-minute cruise out on the deck. In Asakusa, after visiting Sensoji Temple, they shopped along Nakamise Street. At every stop they happily took many photos. I saw them off at their desired ramen shop near Tokyo Station, where we parted ways. Both of the guests appeared to be very satisfied.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayAsakusa~Akihabara210JPY
    Section 2TrainAkihabara~Tokyo150JPY
    Total360JPY

    Hello! I am Osamu Kitagawa , National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter(English). Please call me SAM.
    I love Japanese culture, history, and visiting historical places, scenic spots, and fashionable spots as well. I can guide you all over Japan as I have ever visited all prefectures in Japan. I have a global experience in international banking business including residing in Hong Kong and Jakarta. So I’m able to have daily conversations in Indonesian language, too. I’m looking forward to seeing you soon!

    Certification
    Certified Travel Services Manager
    Authorized Tour Conductor
    Kyoto Expert Certification

    Jul 23, 2026
    svendulrikr
    Tripadvisor review: Nara Day Trip from Osaka: Customized Tour, Licensed Guide
    Best of Nara
    Amazing trip to Nara with the most…

    Jul 10, 2026
    valerianos862
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo in 1 Day from Yokohama: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Private tour of Tokyo.
    Our guide Sam is very…

    Jun 20, 2026
    Sarah B
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We learned how to ride the trains and we went to…

    Apr 14, 2026
    MDMallory
    Tripadvisor review: Yokohama and Kamakura 6hr Private Trip Government-Licensed Guide
    The Natural Beauty of Kamakura
    Our guide, Sam, was very knowledgeable…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Shibamata & Tokyo Station

    Tokyo in One Day: Shibamata & Tokyo Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:30 Meet at Hotel
    • 11:40 Shibamata (approach road~Taishakuten~Yamamoto-tei)
    • 13:30 Rikugien Garden
    • 14:30 Nezu Shrine~Snake Road~Yanaka Ginza Break at Yanaka Cafe Stand
    • 16:30 Tokyo Station (Shinkansen ticket gate)
    • 17:00 Dismiss at Hotel

    Title: Can You Do an Off-the-Beaten-Path Private Tour in Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report on Shibamata and Rikugien The guests were visitors from Oceania. Since they had visited Japan several times before and had already seen the main tourist sites in Tokyo, we planned an off-the-beaten-path itinerary, as described above. In Shibamata, they were delighted, saying "This is exactly the kind of place we wanted to come to," and they especially enjoyed Yamamoto-tei, where we stopped for a break. At Rikugien, white and red plum blossoms were still in bloom, which they found very satisfying. Along Hebi-michi (the "snake path"), one of the guests kept filming a video while walking and recording their own impressions. On previous visits they had relied on a family member who is fluent in Japanese, so this was their first time visiting Japan on their own. They were anxious about transferring at Tokyo Station when moving to Kyoto the following day (on March 2 taxis were unavailable due to the Tokyo Marathon), so I guided them to the Shinkansen ticket gates inside Tokyo Station.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainAsakusa Line Daimon~Keisei Line Shibamata419JPY
    Section 2TrainKeisei Line Shibamata~JR Komagome418JPY
    Section 3TrainJR Nippori~JR Hamamatsucho178JPY
    Total1,015JPY

    Hello! My name is Hideki Maruyama. I was born in Osaka and raised in the Greater Tokyo area. I obtained my National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter Certificate in February 2016.
    I spent 23 years working at a leading Japanese automotive company, including 7 years posted overseas. I then worked for a German premium automotive manufacturer for 13 years, followed by 6 years as an advisor to a British energy company. Through these roles at global corporations, I developed and refined key skills such as:
    1. Cross-cultural communication
    2. A deep understanding of business elites and affluent customers
    3. The ability to deliver impactful and impressive presentations in English
    In addition to my regular duties, I often served as an interpreter for top executives during meetings with foreign government officials. I also had opportunities to introduce aspects of Japan—such as our national character and consumer preferences—to leadership teams in both the German and British companies.
    As a tour guide, I’ve had the pleasure of guiding guests from a wide range of countries especially after the pandemic, including the US, UK, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, Belgium, Switzerland, Austria, Ireland, Norway, Sweden, Romania, Slovenia, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, India, Hong Kong, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Brazil, Argentina, Columbia, Thailand, Malaysia, the Philippines, Laos, Turkey, Jordan, Kenya and Israel.
    When guiding, I always keep in mind to go beyond what guests can find on social media or ChatGPT. I believe my professional background allows me to offer unique insights, and I am encouraged when guests mention this in their reviews

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

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

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

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

  • Tokyo: Meiji Shrine & Zojoji Temple

    Tokyo: Meiji Shrine & Zojoji Temple

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Meet @ Hotel
    • 8:30-9:15 Meiji Shrine
    • 9:40-10:15 Hie Shrine
    • 10:30-11:45 Imperial Palace (Sakuradamon Gate – East Gardens – Kitanomaru Park)
    • 12:00-12:45 Yasukuni Shrine
    • 13:15 Lunch @ Asakusa (Sushiya Street)
    • 14:00-14:30 Sensoji Temple
    • 15:00-15:40 Sengakuji Temple
    • 16:55-16:25 Zojoji Temple
    • 16:40 Dismissal @ Hotel

    Title: What's a Full-Day Private Temple and Shrine Tour in Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Body: This was the guests' third visit to Japan, and they brought a goshuin (temple stamp) book they had obtained on a previous trip. As they enjoy watching Japanese period films, they wished to visit as many temples and shrines as possible to add more goshuin stamps, so we followed a list of desired locations they had prepared in advance. Because the Tokyo Marathon was scheduled for the following day, there were many runners out practicing, but the weather was fine and the guests were able to have a very enjoyable time. According to the pedometer on the smartphone, we exceeded 26,000 steps. For lunch, the guests enjoyed the nigiri sushi they had requested in Asakusa. From the next day, they planned to board a cruise ship and return to Tokyo two weeks later.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayHibiya~Meiji-jingumae178JPY
    Section 2SubwayMeiji-jingumae~Akasaka178JPY
    Section 3SubwayAkasaka-mitsuke~Sakuradamon178JPY
    Section 4SubwayKudanshita~Asakusa286JPY
    Section 5SubwayAsakusa~Sensoji Temple272JPY
    Section 6SubwaySengakuji~Daimon178JPY
    Section 7SubwayOnarimon~Hibiya178JPY
    Total1,448JPY

    Hi friends, I’m Seky, a tour guide in Tokyo, but I cover all over Japan, namely from Hokkaido to Kyushu. I have lived overseas for more than 15 years in total, such as US, UK, Singapore and others, and enjoyed local culture there. Back in Japan, I wish I could help travelers to Japan enjoy Japanese culture, and this is why I became a tour guide.
    In Tokyo, my favorite places are Shibuya, Harajuku, Asakusa, and if you are interested in fish market, I’d love to take you to the world largest Tuna auction and/or if you are sports lovers, I’ll go to ball games (baseball) too.

    May 8, 2025
    J
    jeanne_c
    Sell was very…
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Sell was very knowledgeable and willing to talk…

    Mar 2, 2025
    Joe_F
    Excellent Custom Tokyo Tour
    Viator review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour, customized to my interests, Edo period…

    Mar 1, 2025
    R2911ISjoef
    Excellent Custom Tours, Great Guides, Reasonable Prices.
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour with a friendly…

    Oct 27, 2024
    Jennifer_G
    Great day touring Tokyo !
    Viator review: Private Tokyo Tour with Government Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 7 persons)
    We had…

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Hiroshima Peace Park

    Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Hiroshima Peace Park

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at Hiroshima Station
    • 11:00 Miyajima
    • 14:00 Lunch
    • 16:00 Hiroshima Peace Park
    • 18:00 Hiroshima Station, Dismissal

    Title: What's a Private Day Tour of Miyajima and Hiroshima Peace Park Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Tour Report Date: March 2025 Places visited: Miyajima, Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park Guest: The guests Weather: Cloudy Experiences: Itsukushima Shrine – etiquette for worship : Daishoin Temple – Kaidan-meguri (walk through the dark passage) : Maple Road – stroll : Peace Memorial Park – moment of silence in remembrance Details: The guests were a group visiting from North America. They were very lovely guests. They seemed quite interested in okonomiyaki and asked some detailed questions about it, so I answered that it was a Japanese-style chapati, but they pointed out that this was not quite right. It made me feel that I should gradually upgrade my somewhat improvised English. That was my day today.

    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

    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.

    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…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Daigoji Temple & Enter from Philosopher's Path

    Kyoto in One Day: Daigoji Temple & Enter from Philosopher’s Path

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Hotel meet
    • 8:45 Daigoji Temple
    • 10:45 Tenjuan
    • 11:25 Nanzenji Temple
    • 12:10 Lunch (soba, rice bowl)
    • 12:40 Eikando Temple
    • 13:45 Enter from Philosopher's Path (south entrance)
    • 14:10 Tour ends

    Title: What's a Private Kyoto Tour of Daigo-ji, Tenju-an, and Eikan-do Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from North America. Since they lead a constantly busy life back home, they wanted to visit quiet places that are not so well known as tourist destinations. At their suggestion, we decided to visit Daigo-ji Temple, Tenju-an, and Eikan-do. This was my first time guiding Daigo-ji in English, but I had guided there before in Japanese, and I was able to draw on that experience to fulfill my role. As it was a Saturday, there were quite a few visitors, but the only other foreign tourists were one other group. The guests took many photographs. Perhaps because they usually speak another language, there were hardly any questions, but they listened very attentively to my explanations. We finished the tour by walking the Philosopher's Path to Ginkaku-ji Temple. The photo was taken at Daigo-ji.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKarasuma Oike~Daigo330JPY
    Section 2SubwayDaigo~Keage290JPY
    Total620JPY

    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.

    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…

  • Kyoto: Hyatt Regency Kyoto & Fushimi Inari

    Kyoto: Hyatt Regency Kyoto & Fushimi Inari

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Hyatt Regency Kyoto
    • 9:10-9:25 Arashiyama Bamboo Grove Path
    • 9:40-10:00 Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 10:25-10:50 Kyoto Imperial Palace
    • 11:00-11:30 Nijo Castle
    • 11:50-12:50 Lunch (Yoshikura)
    • 12:50-13:30 Ninenzaka – Sannenzaka – Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • 14:00-14:30 Fushimi Inari
    • 15:00 Disband at Tea Ceremony Experience MAIKOYA

    What's a Full-Day Private Tour of Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Asia. The itinerary was: Hotel → the Bamboo Grove path in Arashiyama → Kinkaku-ji → the Kyoto Imperial Palace → Nijo Castle → lunch (Yoshikura) → Ninenzaka, Sannenzaka, and Kiyomizu-dera → Fushimi Inari → a tea ceremony experience at MAIKOYA, where we parted ways. The guests seemed quite familiar with Japan. At each sightseeing spot they toured calmly, and regarding the relationship between Shinto and Buddhism, the simple atmosphere of the tea room, and the significance of the Emperor for Japanese people, they already knew and appeared to understand these topics well. For lunch, since the request was for "everyday Kyoto food," I took them to "Yoshikura," located just south of Teramachi Imadegawa, and they were very pleased with it. What's more, the head chef of the restaurant was planning a trip to Tainan City, so across the counter he received an impromptu lesson on Tainan sightseeing, and it was a lively exchange. Among the obanzai appetizers there was a simmered okara dish, and when I asked, "By the way, have you ever heard the term 'okara construction'?" I learned that shoddy construction is apparently a social problem in the region, and it was explained that there are many buildings with weak earthquake resistance. At the end, since we had a little time to spare, before heading to the parting spot I briefly guided them to some shops in the Shinkyogoku and Nishiki Market areas where they could buy Kyoto-style items.

    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 !

    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.…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Departure: Otemachi Station & Shimbashi Station

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Departure: Otemachi Station & Shimbashi Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meeting place: Hotel Tokyo
    • 9:40 Departure: Otemachi Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • Kasumigaseki Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line)
    • 10:00 Arrive at Shinjuku Station
    • Shinjuku Shinjuku Station East Exit
    • Omoide Yokocho
    • Kabukicho
    • 11:00 Depart Shinjuku Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line)
    • Shinjuku-sanchome Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line)
    • 11:15 Arrive at Meiji-jingumae Station
    • Harajuku Meiji Jingu
    • Takeshita Street
    • Cat Street
    • 12:30 Depart Meiji-jingumae Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line)
    • 12:40 Arrive at Shibuya Station
    • Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • Hachiko Statue
    • Shibuya Station / Midori no Madoguchi
    • 13:30 Depart Shibuya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 14:00 Arrive at Shimbashi Station
    • 14:00 Dismissal: Shimbashi / Yurikamome Station platform

    Title: What Can You See in a Private One-Day Tour of Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan from North America, and it was their first visit to Japan. They had arrived at Haneda Airport the previous evening and taken a taxi to their hotel, and enjoyed Japanese food in Ginza that evening. The main purpose of this trip was participation in the Tokyo Marathon, and they remarked how lucky they felt to have been selected as a participant. They planned to stay in Japan for a total of ten days, staying in Tokyo for the first couple of days before moving on to Kyoto, then touring Kyoto, Osaka, and Nara before returning to Tokyo and heading home. They mentioned wanting to visit Asakusa, Tsukiji, the Imperial Palace, and the Tokyo Station Ramen Street the following day. The tour took place under clear, almost warm skies. The guests wished to cover as many places as possible, even if only briefly at each. First we headed to Shinjuku. At the Shinjuku East Exit, I explained the route to the Tokyo Marathon starting point and to the Metropolitan Government Building. We passed through "Omoide Yokocho" on the way to Kabukicho. I gave an overview of the history and current state of Shinjuku. One comment was that it resembled Times Square in New York, and there were questions such as "How is public safety here? Is it safe to walk alone?" We then moved to Harajuku and visited Meiji Shrine. I explained topics such as "What is Shinto," "the difference between Buddhism and Shinto," and "the history of Edo and the Meiji Restoration." One remark was how wonderful it was to have such a green park in the city center. We then moved to Takeshita Street and Cat Street. The guests eagerly photographed the "dog cafe" and "pig cafe," saying they would love to bring family members who are fond of animals next time. On Cat Street, there was interest in secondhand clothing, with plans to return the following day. After this, we moved to Shibuya, where the guests experienced the Scramble Crossing and took photos. We also took commemorative photos in front of the Hachiko statue. Wishing to reserve the Shinkansen tickets to Kyoto, they purchased them at the ticket office at Shibuya Station. Here too there were questions such as "Why are there so many people? Are most of them Japanese, or are they travelers?" There were also comments such as "Japanese people are all so polite," "The streets are clean and there is no litter scattered around," "Why are there no trash bins?" "The public restrooms are clean and pleasant," and "There don't seem to be any homeless people." There was also a question about how much rent for an apartment in the city would cost. We then moved to Shimbashi. As the guests were heading to Tokyo Big Sight to register for the Tokyo Marathon, I saw them off at the Yurikamome ticket gate, where we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayOtemachi Station~Shinjuku Station209JPY
    Section 2SubwayShinjuku Station~Meiji-jingumae Station178JPY
    Section 3SubwayMeiji-jingumae Station~Shibuya Station178JPY
    Section 4SubwayShibuya Station~Shimbashi Station178JPY
    Total743JPY

    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.

    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…