Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    February, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1) 8:40 Meet up @ Hotel (5-10 Shibakoen 1-chome, Minato-ku, Tokyo)
    • 2) 9:10 East Gardens of the Imperial Palace <Ninomaru Garden・Bairin-zaka Slope>
    • 3) 10:30 Shibuya <Hachiko Statue・Crossing>
    • 4) 11:20 Meiji Shrine
    • 5) 13:00 Yanaka Shopping Street
    • 6) 14:00 Tea Ceremony Experience @ Kakinuma Tea Utensils and Vessels (3-21-9 Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo)
    • 7) 15:10 Disband @ Intersection in front of Lawson Asakusa Kannon Store (2-28-25 Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo)

    What's a Full-Day Private Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on the East Gardens, Meiji Shrine, Yanaka, and a Tea Ceremony I guided a group visiting from North America. In advance, they had mentioned that they would be traveling through several countries in Asia before stopping in Japan. Taking into account the opening time of the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, I proposed starting the tour at 8:40, which the guests agreed to. When we met at the hotel, I reconfirmed the itinerary I had sent in advance, and they told me they had already visited Sensoji Temple the previous day. The group was traveling to celebrate a 50th wedding anniversary. We visited the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace (the plum trees, especially around Bairin-zaka slope, were in full bloom), then Shibuya (the guests were once again moved by the Hachiko statue and its surroundings), and Meiji Shrine (we were able to see processions of three wedding parties and their families, and at the souvenir shop the guests purchased a decorative Kutani-yaki plate). After that, I contacted the tea ceremony venue (the session was scheduled to start at 13:30, but since I planned to guide them through Yanaka, I asked whether we could push it back by 30 minutes) and we headed to the Yanaka shopping street. As this was the final day of a long journey that had begun in early February, with their return home in the early hours of the next day, the guests appeared tired during the walk from Yanaka to the tea ceremony venue. At the tea ceremony, the tea instructor kindly prepared chairs and a table so the experience could be as simple and comfortable as possible, and the guests were very pleased. When I mentioned that the guests were celebrating their golden wedding anniversary, the venue presented them with a small box of dry sweets, which made it even more special. They took a taxi nearby, and we parted ways.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassToei Mita Line Onarimon Station～Toei Mita Line Otemachi Station900JPY
    Section 2Free PassTokyo Metro Tozai Line Takebashi Station～Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line Shibuya Station0JPY
    Section 3Free PassTokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line Shibuya Station～Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line Kita-sando Station0JPY
    Section 4Free PassTokyo Metro Chiyoda Line Meiji-jingumae Station～Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line Sendagi Station0JPY
    Section 5TrainJR Yamanote Line Nippori Station～JR Yamanote Line Ueno Station150JPY
    Section 6Free PassTokyo Metro Ginza Line Ueno Station～Tokyo Metro Ginza Line Tawaramachi Station0JPY
    Total1,050JPY

    Tour Report by Tachi

    Hi! I’m a local guide in Tokyo and have been working as a licensed tour guide for almost 10 years. I love helping guests discover the “real Japan” beyond the guidebooks. I enjoy showing guests both famous sights and places that many tourists miss. My tours are based on your interests and can include not only famous sightseeing spots, but also local neighborhoods, culture, history, and everyday life in Japan. I also help guests enjoy Japanese cultural activities and make communication easier. If you’d like vegan or gluten-free meals, let me help you find suitable restaurants in Tokyo. If you have any food allergies or dietary restrictions, please feel free to let me know in advance. I look forward to showing you around Tokyo!

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    Sep 6, 2026
    Paullyb
    Highly professional and relaxed tour exceeding our expectations
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Tachi…

    Jun 19, 2026
    Daniel_O
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    10/10 would do again!
    Our guide, Tachi was incredibly accommodating, friendly, and…

    May 24, 2026
    Meander63637687943
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Japanese Garden Lover’s Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tour guide Tachi is the best!
    A most enjoyable and…

    May 19, 2026
    Jai_K
    Viator review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    I would definitely…
    I would definitely recommend this tour. Our guide Tachi…

  • Kyoto Local Food & Culture Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Local Food & Culture Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Local Food & Culture Tour in 1 Day, Licensed Guide

    February, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 9:00 Meet up @Hyatt Place Kyoto
    • 2. 9:30 @Ginkaku-ji Temple
    • 3. 10:15 @Philosopher's Path
    • 4. 11:30 @Suirokaku Aqueduct
    • 5. 11:45 @Nanzen-ji Sanmon Gate
    • 6. 12:30 @Nishiki Market
    • 7. 15:15 @Gion
    • 6. 16:25 Disband @Gion-Shijo

    What Is a Private Kyoto Walking and Food Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Nishiki Market, Ginkakuji, and the Philosopher's Path The guests mentioned being sensitive to gluten, though not allergic, so I was a little concerned about how a food tour would go, but they enjoyed everything without any problems. The main goal was to enjoy Nishiki Market, and otherwise they wished to avoid crowds and visit places with beautiful gardens. When I proposed an itinerary of Ginkakuji → the Philosopher's Path → Nanzenji → Nishiki Market, they said they were happy to walk a lot and decided to go with this plan. They were very pleased with both Ginkakuji and the Philosopher's Path. After walking a great deal and working up an appetite, we headed to Nishiki Market. They enjoyed sampling various foods, bought a knife at Aritsugu, and also purchased a kanzashi hairpin as a souvenir. At Nishiki Market, they were extremely happy, saying the guiding exceeded their expectations and that they were able to do everything they had hoped to. Since they wished to see a bit more, we extended the tour by two hours and I showed them around Gion. They appeared quite tired by then, so they took a taxi back to their hotel from Gion-Shijo. They also kindly mentioned that some of their close friends were planning to travel to Kyoto and Osaka, and asked if I could guide them as well.

    Click here for more details: Kyoto Local Food & Culture Tour in 1 Day, Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKarasuma Marutamachi～Ginkakuji-michi230JPY
    Section 2TrainKeage～Sanjo Keihan220JPY
    Total450JPY

    Tour Report by YUKA

    Hi! My name is YUKA. I’ve got the government license in 2018 and joined a half year traning to do the guide. But a half year later I started my carreer, Covid came. I should have given up guiding. During the Covid, I’ve read many books and made my own materials to explain Japanese culture, history, etc. I love guiding because the guests expand my horizon all the time and let me know their own country and culture, etc. It is really important for us all to know each other and respect each other to make this world peace. Thank you for coming to Japan! Let’s enjoy Japan together!

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    Sep 29, 2026
    duncans746
    Yuka was great
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Yuka was a fantastic guide, knowledgeable,…

    Sep 23, 2026
    navinderp2024
    Great day in Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had a great tour…

    Aug 9, 2026
    piperl686
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Honeymoon Tour in Kyoto
    We were so impressed by…

    Aug 5, 2026
    Anita_M
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Great day of sightseeing in Kyoto
    Yuka was a…

  • Kamakura Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kamakura Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kamakura Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    February, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 13:50 Meet up @ Enoshima Electric Railway Hase Station
    • 2. 13:55 Move: On foot
    • 3. 14:00 Stay @ Hase-dera Temple
    • 4. 15:05 Stay @ Kotoku-in Temple
    • 5. 15:30 Move: Train
    • 6. 15:55 Stay @ Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine
    • 7. 16:45 Stay @ Komachi-dori Street
    • 8. 17:20 Disband @ JR Kamakura Station

    Title: What Is a Private Kamakura Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Since I had been informed that the guests would travel from Hakone to Kamakura via Fujisawa Station, I had changed the meeting point in advance to Hase Station on the Enoshima Electric Railway. It seemed that something had been left behind at a station along the way, so their arrival was delayed by about 50 minutes. However, since the itinerary had originally been planned with plenty of flexibility, there was no major impact on the tour. I was told that no available coin lockers could be found at Fujisawa Station, so the guests arrived carrying two suitcases. They were able to find available lockers at Hasedera and Kamakura Station respectively, so I believe they were able to enjoy the tour without worrying about their luggage during the day. Some time was spent shopping along Komachi Street, but in the end the tour was wrapped up in about 3 hours and 30 minutes and concluded at Kamakura Station.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHase Station～Kamakura Station200JPY
    Total200JPY

    Tour Report by Sam

    Hi. My name is Masafumi Miyazaki. Please call me “Sam”. I am a government-licensed guide.
    I was born in Tokyo and was raised in the suburbs of Tokyo called Tama area. When I was in university, I majored in western dramas, so I am good at playing like an actor.
    I like reading, listening to the music, and walking. I belong to several walking clubs, and sometimes I guide the members around Tokyo.
    One of my strengths as a guide is that I know well about kombu, Japanese kelps. In December every year, I work at a traditional kombu shop in Tsukiji Fish Market. At that shop, I learned a lot of things related to kombu or other ingredients for washoku. I can explain the different characteristics of them to you.
    Also, I am familiar with Japanese flowers and plants. If you stroll around a Japanese garden with me, I am sure you will be able to enjoy beautiful flowers and unique plants in every season.
    I look forward to meeting you. Thank you.

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    Sep 29, 2026
    Y9791IZnicks
    Making the most of a rainy day
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Sam was a wonderful…

    Sep 25, 2026
    910lorig
    Best experience for a perfect day in Tokyo!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Best…

    Sep 15, 2026
    R8612KOjanicea
    Highly recommend 👍
    Tripadvisor review: Tsukiji & Asakusa Local Food Tour in 1 Day, Licensed Guide
    Our guide, Sam, was amazing!!…

    Sep 1, 2026
    greasygrandpa
    First Day In Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Our tour guide Sam was very knowledgeable…

  • Wakayama in Half a Day: Stay at Okunoin & Koyasan Station

    Wakayama in Half a Day: Stay at Okunoin & Koyasan Station

    Mt. Koya Sacred Sites Half-Day Tour with Licensed Guide

    February, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30　Meet at Hashimoto Station on the way to Koyasan Station (arrive at Koyasan Station at 10:29)
    • 10:35～10:50　Take the bus to Okunoin-mae (610 yen)
    • 10:50～12:30　Stay at Okunoin
    • 12:30～13:20　Stay at Restaurant Hachiyo.
    • 13:22～13:30　Take the bus to Senjuinbashi (270 yen)
    • 13:30～13:55　Stay at Juzuya Shirobei
    • 14:00～14:40　Stay at Kongobuji Temple
    • 14:45～15:17　Stay at Danjo Garan
    • 15:19～15:30　Move to Koyasan Station (410 yen)
    • Accompany to Hashimoto Station and disband at 16:25

    What Is a Private Koyasan Tour Like in Winter? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests planned to walk the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage after the Koyasan tour, and since I have already completed the Shikoku 88 Temple circuit once and am now gradually making my second round, they asked me many questions about the Shikoku pilgrimage. Having walked the Camino de Santiago de Compostela, they became interested in the experience of the Japanese pilgrims, the henro. We had a lively conversation on the train about how public transportation in Shikoku is inconvenient, which is exactly why walking the pilgrimage becomes necessary. They currently live in Asia and had just arrived in Japan, so the temperature difference was quite extreme, but we enjoyed a Koyasan below freezing while warming up wherever free hot tea was available, at restaurants, and in a room at Kongobuji Temple. They mentioned that it was not so cold while walking. They were also delighted by the snowy scenery, and when it was time to head back at the end, they said it had been the most wonderful day. Normally one visits Koyasan after completing the Shikoku pilgrimage on foot, but they had received their goshuin (temple seal) at Koyasan first. For me, it felt less like guiding customers and more like relatives visiting from a distant land, and I was able to enjoy touring Koyasan with them. Meeting all kinds of people is the true joy of being a guide, and Koyasan in particular tends to attract many unique guests.

    Click here for more details: Mt. Koya Sacred Sites Half-Day Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKoyasan Station～Okunoin-mae610JPY
    Section 2BusOkunoin-mae～Senjuinbashi270JPY
    Section 3BusKondo-mae～Koyasan Station410JPY
    Total1,290JPY

    Tour Report by Yuki

    Hi! I’m an official English guide in Wakayama prefecture. I’m also a national guide as well. I’d like to expand my guide area to help tourists.
    The town of Osaka offers a different atmosphere than Tokyo. I like both exciting Osaka and nature-filled Wakayama Prefecture.
    If you stay in Osaka for 3 days, you can go to Koyasan for one day, or even for a day trip, so I recommend sightseeing at Koyasan.
    If you are tired of the hustle and bustle of the big city, the nature of Koyasan will relax you.
    I will introduce you to the unique culture, history and must-see sights.

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    Aug 17, 2026
    yasmintX6792FN
    Great trip
    Tripadvisor review: Mt. Koya Sacred Sites Half-Day Tour with Licensed Guide
    It was a great time and very interesting…

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

    May 28, 2026
    Duncan_R
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A Great Tour of Kyoto
    The tour was both very informative and…

    May 28, 2026
    ignaciosilenzi
    Tripadvisor review: Mt. Koya Sacred Full-Day Private Tour (Osaka departure) with Licensed Guide
    Amazing day in Koyasan with Miyuki
    Miyuki was…

  • Saitama in Half a Day: Honkawagoe

    Saitama in Half a Day: Honkawagoe

    Kawagoe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    February, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 13:00 Depart from Hotel
    • Stroll along Kuranomachi Street
    • Visit Kitain Temple and Kawagoe Toshogu Shrine
    • 16:30 Arrive at Honkawagoe

    What Is a Private Kawagoe Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The meeting point was initially to be confirmed later, but when I checked in about a week beforehand, the guests said they would come by car and asked where would be a good place to meet. By chance, the staff at a hotel told me about a large-capacity parking area behind it, which was a great help. However, as in other places, Kawagoe gets quite crowded on Saturdays and Sundays, making it difficult to find parking, so I felt once again that cases where the guests decide the meeting point later require some extra caution. The guests were a group from Asia who had been living in the Tokyo area for two years. They did a lot of shopping along the storehouse-lined street. Since we had some time left over, I suggested visiting Kitain if they were not too tired. We managed to get the goshuin stamp, but could not enter the main hall as it closed at 4:00. Even so, we went to Kawagoe Toshogu, and when I gave various explanations, the guests were delighted and took many photos. For the group photos, one of the guests preferred not to be in them and stepped aside. Transportation cost was 0 as we traveled on foot. At the Kawagoe Festival Museum, the guests paid the 300 yen admission fee, so there was no cost on my part.

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

    Tour Report by kazu

    Hello ! My name is Kazuo Inoue, please call me ,”kazu”.
    I started guide business in 2016, 8 years ago . So I have a lot of experience as a guide .
    Also I have joined Tokyo city guide club ,specialising in Asakusa, Meiji shrine,Imperial Palace.
    I have much of knowledge of Tokyo , especially history. I am a specialist of Tokyo.
    I can guide not only main sightseeing spots , but also Tokyo off the beaten path ,
    like Nezu Yanaka, Shibamata , the surbuarb of Tokyo.
    ( the photo is the ring of the Sumo-stadium in Ryogoku ,Tokyo)

    I am looking forward to seeing you. kazu

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    May 26, 2026
    jilliand744
    Tokyo sightseeing
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a good experience with our guide Kazu. He…

    May 7, 2026
    artsZ6836LO
    Kazu in Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kazu was very flexible and knowledgeable

    Made good suggestions…

    Apr 20, 2026
    Fran_R
    Viator review: Private Tokyo Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    A glance of Tokyo
    A good overview of…

    Apr 7, 2026
    Passenger03573064762
    From ancient traditions to rapid trains
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had an ambitious set of…

  • 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

    February, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 6:55 Meet at Kyoto Station
    • 7:15 Fushimi Inari
    • 8:45 Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
    • 9:25 Short break (Arashiyama)
    • 10:45 Kinkaku-ji
    • 12:10 Kiyomizu-dera
    • 13:10 Tour ends

    What Is a Private Day Tour of Kyoto Like in Winter? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests visited Japan from Oceania. We were able to meet by 7:00 and start the tour on schedule. The weather forecast had predicted snow from the afternoon, but it fell on and off from the morning. When it was not snowing, it was basically sunny, and although it was a cold day, we were able to proceed with the tour almost as planned. Since none of the guests had a transportation IC pass, we paid in cash each time. One of the guests took charge of handling the payments together, which was a great help. It was also convenient that everyone could walk quickly. Although it was a cold day, since it was a Saturday, there were many domestic tourists to be seen at Kinkaku-ji and Kiyomizu-dera. The photo was taken at the bamboo grove in Arashiyama.

    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
    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.

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    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 in One Day: Tsukiji & Shibuya

    Tokyo in One Day: Tsukiji & Shibuya

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    February, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Meet up @ EDITION Ginza
    • 8:15 Tsukiji (Fish Market ~ Outer Market ~ Honganji Temple)
    • 10:00 Imperial Palace (Nijubashi Bridge ~ East Gardens)
    • 11:30 Harajuku Lunch @ Kyushu Jangara Ramen
    • 12:00 Takeshita Street ~ Meiji Shrine
    • 14:00 Shibuya (Hachiko, Scramble Crossing ~ Center Gai)
    • 15:00 Disband @ EDITION Ginza,

    What Can You See on a Private Tokyo Day Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tsukiji, the Imperial Palace, and Meiji Shrine The guests were a group visiting from North America. When guests are native English speakers, I make it a policy not to ask about their country of origin. One of the guests had visited Japan several times for travel and had joined a [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) tour with the group last year, while another was visiting Japan for the first time. Before arriving, they had expressed a wish to visit Tsukiji, the Imperial Palace, and Meiji Shrine, but since we had time, I added Takeshita Street and Shibuya to the itinerary. At Tsukiji, they seemed to thoroughly enjoy medium-fatty tuna, grilled king crab, and matcha. They also sampled and purchased dashi stock at a specialty shop. At the Imperial Palace, many police officers were busy preparing for the Emperor's Birthday public appearance, but we were still able to see the Nijubashi Bridge. At the East Gardens, I explained the history from the Edo shogunate through the Meiji Restoration and the relocation of the capital to Tokyo. At Meiji Shrine, we were lucky enough to see two processions for Shinto weddings.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayHibiya Line Tsukiji～Hibiya Line Hibiya178JPY
    Section 2SubwayChiyoda Line Otemachi～Chiyoda Line Meiji-jingumae209JPY
    Section 3TrainJR Harajuku～JR Shibuya146JPY
    Section 4SubwayGinza Line Shibuya～Ginza Line Ginza209JPY
    Total742JPY

    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, 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

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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 in One Day: 40@Asakusa & 00@Meiji Shrine

    Tokyo in One Day: 40@Asakusa & 00@Meiji Shrine

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    February, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1.10:00 Meet @Grand Hyatt Tokyo
    • 2:10:40@Asakusa
    • 3.12:20＠Shibuya
    • 4:14:00@Meiji Shrine
    • 5:15:30@Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
    • 6: 16:00 Disband @Shinjuku Station

    What Does a Full-Day Private Tokyo Tour Cover? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Shibuya, Meiji Shrine, and Shinjuku The guests were visitors from North America. On the morning of the tour they contacted me asking, if possible, to start the tour earlier, so we began the tour at 10:00. They were surprised at how clean the trains and the city were. They were very interested in religion and asked many questions, including about the syncretism of Shinto and Buddhism. At Nakamise, they enjoyed ningyo-yaki and candy-coated strawberries. At Shibuya, they said the Shibuya Crossing and also the beautiful forest of Meiji Shrine were wonderful. After that, they kept exclaiming "amazing" at the view of Tokyo seen from the observation deck of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building in Shinjuku. According to the plan, we were also going to visit Hie Shrine, but the guests were quite tired, so we ended the tour in Shinjuku. As they said they could return to their accommodation on their own, we parted ways at Shinjuku Station.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayRoppongi～Asakusa286JPY
    Section 2SubwayAsakusa～Shibuya252JPY
    Section 3TrainShibuya～Harajuku146JPY
    Section 4TrainHarajuku～Shinjuku146JPY
    Total830JPY

    Tour Report by FUMIKO

    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.

    Request Booking

    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
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  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    February, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 09:50 Meet@Hotel New Otani Tokyo
    • 2. 09:55 Travel: Subway
    • 3. 10:25 Stay@Shinjuku Gyoen
    • 4. 11:45 Travel: Subway
    • 5. 12:40 Stay@Nezu Shrine
    • 6. 13:15 Travel: Subway
    • 7. 13:30 Stay@Yanaka
    • 8. 14:25 Travel: Subway
    • 9. 14:55 Lunch@Kamiya Bar
    • 10. 15:30 Stay@Asakusa
    • 11. 16:25 Disband@Kaminarimon

    Title: What's a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Shinjuku Gyoen, Yanaka, and Asakusa The guests were visitors from North America. They arrived early at the meeting point, so we were able to start smoothly. The first stop, Shinjuku Gyoen, offered perfect cherry-blossom-viewing weather, quite different from two weeks earlier. The plum blossoms and Kanzakura cherry blossoms were in full bloom at the same time, so we naturally ended up staying longer. There was no strong wind like the day before, and I believe the guests enjoyed taking photos. Since I had heard that one of the guests liked street food, I recommended several options in Yanaka, but they did not eat much. I suggested some in Asakusa as well, but in the end we adjusted to a preference to sit at a bar and have some drinks, so we stopped at Kamiya Bar for light snacks and beer. Since I had also heard that the guests enjoyed drinking, after guiding them through Sensoji Temple I introduced some spots along Hoppy Street and we parted ways in Asakusa. For this tour, the admission fee to Shinjuku Gyoen was paid by the guests.

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    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassAkasaka-mitsuke Station～Shinjuku-sanchome Station600JPY
    Section 2Free PassShinjuku-sanchome Station～Nezu Station0JPY
    Section 3Free PassNezu Station～Sendagi Station0JPY
    Section 4Free PassSendagi Station～Asakusa Station0JPY
    Total600JPY

    Tour Report by Sam

    Hi. My name is Masafumi Miyazaki. Please call me “Sam”. I am a government-licensed guide.
    I was born in Tokyo and was raised in the suburbs of Tokyo called Tama area. When I was in university, I majored in western dramas, so I am good at playing like an actor.
    I like reading, listening to the music, and walking. I belong to several walking clubs, and sometimes I guide the members around Tokyo.
    One of my strengths as a guide is that I know well about kombu, Japanese kelps. In December every year, I work at a traditional kombu shop in Tsukiji Fish Market. At that shop, I learned a lot of things related to kombu or other ingredients for washoku. I can explain the different characteristics of them to you.
    Also, I am familiar with Japanese flowers and plants. If you stroll around a Japanese garden with me, I am sure you will be able to enjoy beautiful flowers and unique plants in every season.
    I look forward to meeting you. Thank you.

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    Sep 29, 2026
    Y9791IZnicks
    Making the most of a rainy day
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Sam was a wonderful…

    Sep 25, 2026
    910lorig
    Best experience for a perfect day in Tokyo!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Best…

    Sep 15, 2026
    R8612KOjanicea
    Highly recommend 👍
    Tripadvisor review: Tsukiji & Asakusa Local Food Tour in 1 Day, Licensed Guide
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    First Day In Tokyo
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  • Tokyo in Half a Day: MEIJI JINGU SHRINE & OMOTESANDO

    Tokyo in Half a Day: MEIJI JINGU SHRINE & OMOTESANDO

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    February, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 meet in front of Café no Mori Terrace
    • 10:05 1. MEIJI JINGU SHRINE
    • 11:15 2. TAKESHITA STREET
    • 12:00　3. OMOTESANDO
    • 12:55 See off at Shibuya PARCO

    Title: What's a 3-Hour Private Tour of Meiji Shrine, Harajuku, and Shibuya Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Based on the prior communication with the agency and the proposed itinerary, I met the guests at the designated cafe terrace at Meiji Shrine. After meeting, I learned that the guests were visiting from North America, and the tour proceeded in a consistently cheerful atmosphere. At Meiji Shrine, the guests requested to learn the proper Shinto worship etiquette, and they practiced it themselves as I explained each step. Since the guests enjoyed shopping, I guided them leisurely along Takeshita Street, stopping into various shops along the way. We also strolled through Omotesando, browsing the shops, and the guests were delighted, saying they would definitely return to shop later. After confirming that Omohara Forest, which appeared in the agency's proposed itinerary, was not of interest to the guests, I instead took them to Shibuya PARCO to satisfy their interest in anime and shopping. I guided them through the floors before taking my leave. In advance, the agency had requested that the tour be completed within a maximum of 3 hours, taking into account the guests' subsequent schedule, with the following message: "We would like to know if this itinerary can be covered in 3 hours maximum, as we prefer not to exceed this time frame if possible. The client is on a very tight schedule :)"

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHarajuku～Shibuya146JPY
    Total146JPY

    Tour Report by Masa

    Welcome to Japan. I hope you are going to enjoy your stay.

    Who am I?
    I am a Licensed Guide Interpreter at an age of 61.
    I got an early retirement from 36 yrs of the employment in a Japanese financial sector.
    I hope I can attend to you with the Japanese politeness, hospitality and smile.

    What can I be expected?
    I would like to introduce the photogenic sites, the indigenous experiences
    and good Japanese local food around Tokyo, Hakone/Mt Fuji.
    I might be able to show you the features of shrine and temple with a religious manner if you’d like.
    As a matter of fact, I don’t have a specific religion to believe, though.
    I love Japan and that’s why I started a new career as a guide.

    What do I love?
    Most of all, my family. I have a wife 56 yrs old, a son 28 yrs old and a daughter 25 yrs old.
    I like eating raw fish and sushi, buckwheat noodles and curry rice.

    How do I spend my spare time?
    I run for 5 km in the morning listening to my favorite music.
    I might have a chance to go to a studio program in the fitness club nearby once a week.

    I look forward to meeting you soon.
    Thank you.

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