Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo in One Day: Nijubashi Bridge & Shibuya

    Tokyo in One Day: Nijubashi Bridge & Shibuya

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    November, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Hotel Akihabara
    • 9:30-10:00 Nijubashi Bridge
    • 10:30-11:30 Meiji Shrine
    • 11:40-14:00 Takeshita Street
    • 14:00-15:00 Shibuya
    • The customers said they wanted to see a bit more of Shibuya on their own, so we parted ways in Shibuya.

    What Is a Private Tokyo Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on the Imperial Palace, Meiji Shrine, and Shibuya The guests were visitors from North America. They were delightful, and I very much enjoyed guiding them. At the Imperial Palace, I showed them photos of the imperial family and explained topics such as the fact that a woman cannot become emperor and the role of the Emperor. At Meiji Shrine, I explained the reasons for the transition of political power from the samurai to the Emperor, Japan after the opening of the country, and the differences between Shinto and Buddhism. There happened to be children celebrating Shichi-Go-San and a wedding ceremony taking place, which the guests watched with great interest. In Shibuya, they said they wanted to try pachinko, and although it cost 500 yen, they seemed to enjoy it, which was nice.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainAkihabara～Tokyo146JPY
    Section 2TrainNijubashi-mae～Meiji-jingumae209JPY
    Section 3TrainHarajuku～Shibuya146JPY
    Total501JPY

    Tour Report by Tomoko

    Hello, my name is Tomoko, I have been an English guide since 2011. I have guided Asakusa, Tokyo SkyTree, Nihonnbashi, Shibuya, Harajyuku, Meiji Shrine, Takeshita Street, Ginza, Yanaka, Tsukiji, Hamarikyuu Garden and many places in Tokyo. Public transportation in Tokyo is very complicated, I show the guests how to use public transportation in Tokyo. I will exchange a lot of emails with my guests and according to your requests, I will make itineraries. The tour will be a customized tour only for you. Will you tell me whatever you want to do and whereever you want to visit in Japan? My motto is ‘Enjoy! I am looking forward to guiding you. Thank you.

    Request Booking
  • Shizuoka: Mount Fuji World Heritage Centre

    Shizuoka: Mount Fuji World Heritage Centre

    Mt. Fuji View Shimizu Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    November, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:45: Gather at Shimizu Port
    • 9:00~9:15: Travel by bus to Shimizu Station
    • 9:19~10:05: Travel by train (Shimizu~Fuji~Fujinomiya)
    • 10:15~11:15: Visit Mount Fuji World Heritage Centre
    • 11:15~11:40: Lunch (enjoy yakisoba)
    • 11:40~12:40: Visit Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha Shrine, walk to Fujinomiya Station accompanying the float procession of the annual festival
    • 12:49~13:48: Travel by train (Fujinomiya~Fuji~Shizuoka)
    • 13:50~14:10: Watch the Shinkansen passing through at 270 km/h on the Shinkansen platform at Shizuoka Station
    • 14:13~14:34: Travel by train (Shizuoka~Shimizu)
    • 14:35~14:45: Return to Hinode Wharf by the free Espulse shuttle and on foot
    • 14:45: Disband at Shimizu Port

    Title: What's a Private Day Tour of Shizuoka and Mount Fuji Like by Public Transport? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America, making their first trip to Japan. They had arrived at Haneda only the day before via a connecting flight, and although they still seemed to be experiencing jet lag, they smiled throughout and clearly enjoyed the tour. Despite the cloudy weather, we were fortunate that Mount Fuji revealed its full form all day long. Interestingly, even though it was early November, there was no snow cap on the summit this year, which may be a sign of unusual weather. Under the constraint of using public transportation only, I take pride in having put together an efficient itinerary, and the guests were very pleased. It was also lucky that Hongu Taisha Shrine was in the middle of its grand annual festival. The guests finished every bit of the yakisoba and imagawayaki from the food stalls. They also enjoyed the experience of walking through the streets alongside the procession of festival floats. At Shizuoka Station, they were thrilled to see a Shinkansen pass through at 270 km/h. For tours in Shizuoka, I highly recommend the passing Shinkansen and the Mount Fuji World Heritage Centre as content.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShimizu～Fujinomiya590JPY
    Section 2TrainFujinomiya～Shizuoka860JPY
    Section 3TrainShizuoka～Shimizu240JPY
    Section 4TrainShizuoka～Shizuoka150JPY
    Section 5BusWharf Vermeer Museum～Shimizu Station200JPY
    Total2,040JPY

    Tour Report by Mike

    I have worked in the automotive industry for 44 years including 30 years with sales responsibility for the global car manufacturers. And I have lived in the U.S. for 20 years as permanent resident. I am quite familiar with communication in English with foreigners. I am confident not only to satisfy you but also to exceed your expectation with deep knowledge of Japan, especially for its culture based on the long history. There are many sightseers musts in Japan and I look forward to guiding you for beautiful sights, historic relics, and modern day-to-day life of the people here.

    Request Booking

    Sep 28, 2024
    Peta_G
    Efficient and Comfortable way to Tour the Shizuoka Area
    Viator review: Port Pick-Up: Shizuoka Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    Mike…

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Kiyomizu-dera Temple & Gion

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Kiyomizu-dera Temple & Gion

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    November, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meeting point: Hotel Kyoto Kiyomizu
    • 10:10 Move: Walk from the hotel to Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • 10:30 Sightseeing ①: Tour of Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • 11:30 Sightseeing ②: Stroll along Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka
    • 12:10 Lunch and break
    • 13:00 Move: Travel by bus to Gion
    • 13:15 Sightseeing ③: Stroll around Gion
    • 14:00 Dismissal: In front of Keihan Gion-Shijo Station

    What's a 4-Hour Private Family Tour of Kyoto's Kiyomizu-dera and Gion Like? A Licensed Guide's Report This tour was for a group visiting Kyoto from North America. Advance communication and coordination were handled through one of the guests. They had no particular requests for destinations, saying, "We'll leave the destinations up to you, but we'd definitely like to visit Gion." Since the guests' hotel was along the Keihan Line, about a 15-minute walk from Kiyomizu-dera, and Gion could be reached in about 5 minutes by bus after coming down from Kiyomizu-dera, I planned a 4-hour short course covering "Kiyomizu-dera ⇒ Sannen-zaka and Ninen-zaka ⇒ lunch and rest ⇒ Gion." This itinerary turned out to be unusually compact compared with other tours I have guided. This was out of consideration for the fact that it was a tour with young children, giving top priority to the agreement reached with the guests that "the health and safety of the children" should come first, and to minimize movement between destinations as much as possible. However, once the tour actually began, sightseeing with two young children proved challenging. For most of the itinerary, the two children rode in a two-seat cart, and one of the guests pushed it from beginning to end, which must have been quite a physical burden. In particular, the long sloped roads of Kiyomizu-dera and moving through the crowds were extremely difficult. As the guide, I led the way and took as much care as possible to prevent the children from being jostled in the crowds. Fortunately, one of the guests was of a sturdy build and seemed to have plenty of stamina, which is why that role could be fulfilled. There was also some travel by bus, though brief, and there was concern about "how to protect the children in the crowds," but through the coordinated efforts of the guests and the guide, we managed to get through it. Above all, it was a half day in which I was soothed and encouraged by the smiles of two energetic children. The guests were also interested in Japanese culture and history, asking many questions wherever we went, which allowed us to deepen our exchange. Finally, I would like to comment on the issue of "tours with young children." I have previously guided a group traveling with a very young child, and including this tour, concerns surrounding the issue of "tours with young children" once again come to mind. While guiding, when I look at other inbound groups, I have noticed more and more people traveling with young children in carts. In my case, by cooperating with the guests, I have managed to avoid accidents, but if a serious accident were to occur, it could become a major problem. If such cases increase, some form of restriction may become necessary. If [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) has any information or case studies on this matter, it would be helpful for future reference if they could be shared.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKiyomizu-michi～Gion130JPY
    Total130JPY

    Tour Report by Nori

    Hi, everyone! I’m Norifumi Kamon, a government registered guide interpreter. Please call me “Nori”, or “Kamon-san”.
    Let me introdece myself. I was born on April 17th in 1952 in Miyazaki prefecture in Kyushu island. I used to be an English teacher of Osaka Prefectural high school. When I retired from a teacher ten years ago, I decided to get a professional guide license. I wanted to play a role of the bridge between Japanese people and the people from all over the world as a second life of mine. After two years efforts, I finally got the guide license. Since then, I have guided several handreds of foreign people mainly in Kyoto and Nara for about five years except Corona Pandemic period. Almost all the tourists were deeply impressed by the beauty of nature, traditoin, culture, and art of Japan. I can surely help you enjoy and be satisfied with the sightseeing in Japan. And I’m looking forward to seeing you soon.

    Request Booking

    Apr 9, 2026
    Ron_W
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We saw so much in the…
    We saw so much in the…

    Mar 24, 2026
    zackn719
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Knowledgeable guide and a great tour
    We did our private tour with…

    Oct 20, 2025
    66speech
    Highlights of Kyoto.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great experience with Nori. Nori exceeded our expectations with…

    Oct 16, 2025
    Michael_H
    Thoroughly enjoyed the…
    Viator review: Osaka Off the Beaten Path 6hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Thoroughly enjoyed the day out…

  • Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour

    Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour

    Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide

    November, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 8:30 Meet at Aloft Ginza
    • 2. 9:00 Meiji Shrine
    • 3. 10:15 Shinjuku Gyoen
    • 4. 11:45 Rikugien Garden
    • 5. 12:30 Lunch (Komatsuan Sohonke Komagome Main Store)
    • 6. 14:00 Nezu Shrine
    • 7. 14:30 Yanaka
    • 8. 15:15 Asakusa
    • 9. 16:30 Disband at Aloft Ginza

    Title: What Can You See on an 8-Hour Private Walking Tour of Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. It was their first time in Japan, and they had arrived the day before, planning to head to Kyoto the next day, so today was their only day for sightseeing in Tokyo. I thanked them for choosing this tour despite that schedule. They planned to stay in Kyoto for two days and then travel on to Asia, where some of the guests intended to visit family. We visited a series of traditional places, including Meiji Shrine, Shinjuku Gyoen, Rikugien Garden, Nezu Shrine, Yanaka, and Asakusa. The guests were fairly quiet and did not ask many questions, and their reactions at each spot were modest, so I was a little unsure whether they were enjoying themselves. However, at the end they gave me a tip and also promptly wrote a very positive review, which put me at ease. It was an 8-hour tour that included places requiring a lot of walking, such as the Japanese gardens, but the guests walked energetically throughout and we completed the tour without any problems.

    Click here for more details: Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassHigashi-Ginza～Meiji-jingumae600JPY
    Section 2Free PassMeiji-jingumae～Shinjuku-gyoemmae0JPY
    Section 3Free PassShinjuku-gyoemmae～Komagome0JPY
    Section 4TrainKomagome～Nishi-Nippori146JPY
    Section 5Free PassNishi-Nippori～Nezu0JPY
    Section 6TrainNippori～Ueno146JPY
    Section 7Free PassUeno～Asakusa0JPY
    Section 8SubwayAsakusa～Higashi-Ginza220JPY
    Total1,112JPY

    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…

  • Nara in One Day: Ukigumo-enchi in Nara Deer Park & Kofukuji Temple

    Nara in One Day: Ukigumo-enchi in Nara Deer Park & Kofukuji Temple

    Nara Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    November, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:21 Train arrives at JR Nara Station (Start of Tour -16:30)
    • 　 taxi 10 minutes
    • 10:40-11:00 Ukigumo-enchi in Nara Deer Park
    • walk 10 minutes
    • 11:20-50 Kasuga-taisha Shrine
    • walk 10 minutes
    • 12:10-30 Shiga Naoya's Old Residenc
    • e　 walk 10 minutes
    • 12:40 back to Kasuga-taisha Shrine
    • (light lunch at Mizuya-chaya)
    • walk 10 minutes along the foot of Wakakusayama Hill
    • 13:00-30 Todaiji's Nigatsudo Hall
    • walk 5 minutes
    • 13:40 Todaiji's Shoro Bell Tower　
    • walk 5 minutes
    • 14:00-30 Todaiji's Great Buddha Hall
    • 　 walk 5 minutes
    • 14:40-50 Todaiji's Nandaimon (South Great Gate)　
    • walk 15 minutes
    • 15:20-30 Unkimi-do
    • walk 5 minutes
    • 15:40 Nara-machi (Old Quarters of the town)
    • walk 5 minutes
    • 16:00-10 Kofukuji Temple
    • 　 walk 15 minutes
    • 16:40 back at JR Nara Station (End of Tour)

    What Does a Private Nara Walking Tour Through the Forest Paths Look Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe. Since they had expressed interest in the former residence of a famous author, we set out from Kasuga Taisha Shrine, walked through the forest along the upper Negimichi path to the former residence located in the old shrine-family district, and then returned to Kasuga Taisha Shrine via the lower Negimichi path. It had been a while since I last walked through this forest, and I love this route so much that if there were ever a "7-hour tour," I would love to include it. Near the end of the tour, after finishing at Todaiji Temple, the guests realized they had lost their glasses somewhere. We called the former residence and the teahouse at Mizuya, but unfortunately the glasses were not found. On the way back to Nara Station, they bought a temporary pair of reading glasses at a 100-yen section of a drugstore. We were amazed at the price of just 88 yen including tax, and the tour came to an end!

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

    Tour Report by Junichi

    Hello! Thank you for choosing Nara! I bet you’ll love Nara. I specialize in Nara because Nara is the unique place where in one day you can cover the history and religions of Japan from the ancient times to the post war era while enjoying rambling in the UNESCO World Heritage park, having communication with lovely deer, surrounded with the beautiful nature.
    I grew up in Nara, went university in Kyoto, enjoyed teaching at high schools and a university in Osaka. The three former capitals of Japan are home to me.
    After retiring from teaching I began guiding so that I can meet various people from various corners of the world with a variety of cultures and backgrounds. Each time I guide, I find it hugely rewarding because I learn a lot from my guests sharing the history, culture and all that I know about Nara, Kyoto and Osaka.
    I used to be a marathon runner, mountain climber and skier though I am not much of them anymore.
    What I especially recommend is to stay in Nara a couple of days and enjoy communicating with friendly deer while visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Nara in early morning, temples and shrines at night are well worth experiencing.

    Request Booking

    May 16, 2026
    I3520JTcristinat
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Nara with family
    Excellent tour with Junichi!!! Perfect English speaking guide and…

    May 3, 2026
    Maria_J
    Viator review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Enjoyable day in Nara
    We spent 6 hours in Nara with Junichi…

    Apr 11, 2026
    64sandig
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 8hr Private Tour – Osaka DEP. with Licensed Guide
    ????? Absolutely Outstanding ? Junichi Made Our Nara Day…

    Mar 30, 2026
    dpadillachavez
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 8hr Private Tour – Kyoto DEP. with Licensed Guide
    Great day at Nara!
    Best tour on Nara, Junichi…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Iwatayama Monkey Park & Matsuo Taisha Shrine

    Kyoto in One Day: Iwatayama Monkey Park & Matsuo Taisha Shrine

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    November, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Meeting: Hotel Kyoto
    • 09:10 Travel: Move toward Arashiyama by JR
    • 10:00 Sightseeing ①: Visit Tenryu-ji Temple ⇒ Stroll along the Bamboo Path ⇒ Stroll along the Oi River and Togetsukyo Bridge
    • 11:15 Sightseeing ②: Visit Iwatayama Monkey Park
    • 12:15 Lunch and break (Arashiyama)
    • 13:00 At the guest's request, stop by Seven Bank
    • 13:45 Travel: Move to Matsuo Shrine
    • 13:50 Sightseeing ③: Matsuo Taisha Shrine
    • 14:30 Travel: Take the Hankyu and subway to JR Kyoto
    • 15:00 Dismissal: JR Kyoto Station

    Title: What's a Private Arashiyama Tour in Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Oceania who were traveling and sightseeing in Japan. Recently I have been assigned to guide many guests from Oceania (probably just a coincidence). The person handling the advance communication and arrangements was one of the guests. I received the assignment in August and immediately sent a first message, and the local agency acting as an intermediary also sent an email to the guests in August telling them to get in touch with the guide (I found this out because I was copied on it). However, no reply came from the guests, and eventually the end of October arrived. At this stage I asked the person in charge at [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) for advice (honestly I should have consulted them much earlier), and two days before the tour I was finally able to reach the guests directly. It seemed that the coordination between the guests and the local agency had not gone smoothly, and the guests had been drafting a reply message to me but had failed to send it. Although it was only two days before the tour date, the guests' desired destinations finally became clear (Tenryu-ji, Togetsukyo Bridge, the Monkey Park, and Katsura Imperial Villa), and I quickly put together a schedule by revising the itinerary I had prepared in advance. The one request I was unable to accommodate was Katsura Imperial Villa. As is well known, Katsura Imperial Villa is a facility managed by the Imperial Household Agency and requires advance reservation, but because of its popularity, reservations fill up about a week ahead. Naturally, this time I could not secure a reservation just two days before. Instead, I obtained the guests' agreement to visit Matsuo Taisha, a shrine famous for sake located in the same direction. On the tour day, we were blessed with such fine weather that the previous day's downpour seemed like a lie, and we had a very pleasant tour. Since the tour centered on the Arashiyama area in the western part of Kyoto, the guests were able to fully enjoy the beauty of nature and the living breath of ancient Kyoto culture. We started out feeling anxious because I had not been able to reach the guests until the last minute, but thanks to the fine weather and the friendly personalities of the guests, it turned into a very pleasant tour.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainJR Kyoto～JR Saga-Arashiyama240JPY
    Section 2TrainHankyu Arashiyama～Hankyu Matsuo-taisha170JPY
    Section 3TrainHankyu Matsuo-taisha～Hankyu Karasuma240JPY
    Section 4SubwayShijo～Kyoto220JPY
    Total870JPY

    Tour Report by Nori

    Hi, everyone! I’m Norifumi Kamon, a government registered guide interpreter. Please call me “Nori”, or “Kamon-san”.
    Let me introdece myself. I was born on April 17th in 1952 in Miyazaki prefecture in Kyushu island. I used to be an English teacher of Osaka Prefectural high school. When I retired from a teacher ten years ago, I decided to get a professional guide license. I wanted to play a role of the bridge between Japanese people and the people from all over the world as a second life of mine. After two years efforts, I finally got the guide license. Since then, I have guided several handreds of foreign people mainly in Kyoto and Nara for about five years except Corona Pandemic period. Almost all the tourists were deeply impressed by the beauty of nature, traditoin, culture, and art of Japan. I can surely help you enjoy and be satisfied with the sightseeing in Japan. And I’m looking forward to seeing you soon.

    Request Booking

    Apr 9, 2026
    Ron_W
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We saw so much in the…
    We saw so much in the…

    Mar 24, 2026
    zackn719
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Knowledgeable guide and a great tour
    We did our private tour with…

    Oct 20, 2025
    66speech
    Highlights of Kyoto.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great experience with Nori. Nori exceeded our expectations with…

    Oct 16, 2025
    Michael_H
    Thoroughly enjoyed the…
    Viator review: Osaka Off the Beaten Path 6hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Thoroughly enjoyed the day out…

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    November, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 10:55 Meet up @ Hotel Metropolitan Tokyo Ikebukuro
    • 2. 11:00 Travel: Train, Subway
    • 3. 11:45 Visit @ Asakusa
    • 4. 12:50 Lunch @ Sakafuji
    • 5. 13:30 Travel: Subway, Train
    • 6. 14:25 Visit @ Shinjuku Gyoen
    • 7. 15:15 Visit @ Shinjuku Sanchome (Pedestrian Paradise)
    • 8. 15:50 Disband @ Tokyu Kabukicho Tower

    What Is a Private Full-Day Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Shinjuku Gyoen, and Kabukicho The guests were visitors from North America. Since they already had Suica cards, we traveled by JR train for most of the day, except for the section between Ueno Station and Asakusa Station. The restaurant we used for lunch felt like an izakaya that also serves lunch. Although it was a little small, the prices were reasonable, and it seemed well suited to the guests. Asakusa is a helpful area because, if you search carefully, you can find hidden dining spots. Shinjuku Gyoen was more popular than expected. The chrysanthemum exhibition had just begun, and the guests took many photos. Since Kabukicho was on their list of requested spots, I took them at the end to "Shinjuku Kabuki Hall – Kabuki Yokocho" inside the Tokyu Kabukicho Tower before we parted ways.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainIkebukuro Station～Ueno Station180JPY
    Section 2SubwayUeno Station～Asakusa Station180JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa Station～Ueno Station180JPY
    Section 4TrainUeno Station～Shinjuku Station210JPY
    Total750JPY

    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.

    Request Booking

    Jul 21, 2026
    G848SWmaribelm
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Tour of Tokyo sights was great!
    The tour experience…

    Jul 16, 2026
    Cezary P
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour of Tokyo!
    Sam, was outstanding! Showed…

    Jul 9, 2026
    Michael_C
    Tokyo tour
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour with a wonderful guide -…

    Jun 18, 2026
    David_W
    Viator review: Tokyo Tsukiji Food & Culture 4hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Fish Market Tour
    Great tour. Got to see…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Tsukiji Station & Shibuya Station

    Tokyo in One Day: Tsukiji Station & Shibuya Station

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    November, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meeting place: Tokyo International Cruise Terminal
    • 10:20 Tokyo International Cruise Terminal Station
    • (Yurikamome)
    • Shimbashi Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Ginza Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • 11:00 Arrive at Tsukiji Station
    • Tsukiji Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 12:30 Depart Tsukiji Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • Kasumigaseki Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line)
    • 13:00 Arrive at Shinjuku-gyoemmae Station
    • Shinjuku Gyoen Shinjuku Gyoen
    • 14:00 Depart Shinjuku-gyoemmae Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line)
    • Shinjuku-sanchome
    • (Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line)
    • 14:20 Arrive at Shibuya Station
    • Shibuya Lunch: Tsukiji Sushisei Shibuya Branch
    • Scramble Crossing
    • Hachiko Statue
    • 15:30 Depart Shibuya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Shimbashi Station
    • (Yurikamome)
    • 16:10 Arrive at Tokyo International Cruise Terminal Station
    • 17:00 Dismissal: Coral Princess boarding gate

    Title: What Can You See on a One-Day Private Cruise Port Tour of Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from North America. This visit to Japan was a one-day trip during a stopover on a cruise, with the cruise ship arriving in port this morning and departing tonight. The cruise route was Singapore – Vietnam – Hong Kong – Osaka – Tokyo – Hawaii – Los Angeles. The guests expressed the wish, "While in port in Tokyo, we would like to visit as many spots in the city as possible, and also have lunch." The morning was sunny and the afternoon was cloudy during the tour. Because one of the guests had difficulty walking, it became a tour that proceeded at a slow pace. First, we transferred via the Yurikamome and the Tokyo Metro to Tsukiji. We managed to make our way slowly through the crowded Tsukiji Market. Along the way, we strolled at a relaxed pace while sampling things such as roasted soybeans, nuts, and wasabi peanuts. From here, we went to Shinjuku Gyoen, which the guests had strongly wished to visit. One of the group, who had difficulty walking, rested on a bench at the entrance and did not enter the garden. I explained the origins of Shinjuku Gyoen and the history of Edo and Tokyo. They seemed especially fond of the pond and pine trees in the Japanese garden. They remarked, "It's wonderful that there is such a green place in the center of the city," and asked, "Who administers and maintains this park?" After this, the guests said, "We are getting tired, so we would all like to have a relaxed lunch. Japanese food would be nice." I made a reservation at a sushi restaurant in Shibuya and managed to secure seats. They were pleased, saying, "It's fresh and delicious." After this, we went to the Scramble Crossing. Although it was crowded, everyone in the group, including the guest with difficulty walking, managed to cross the intersection. We also viewed the Hachiko statue. At this point the guests said, "We are tired, so we would like to head back," and I saw them off to the cruise ship via the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line and the Yurikamome, where we parted ways. The guests commented, "There are no homeless people to be seen," "There is no litter on the streets, and no trash cans placed around," and "Somehow, everyone is polite."

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherTokyo International Cruise Terminal Station～Shimbashi Station388JPY
    Section 2SubwayShimbashi Station～Tsukiji Station178JPY
    Section 3SubwayTsukiji Station～Shinjuku-gyoemmae Station209JPY
    Section 4SubwayShinjuku-gyoemmae Station～Shibuya Station178JPY
    Section 5SubwayShibuya Station～Shimbashi Station178JPY
    Section 6OtherShimbashi Station～Tokyo International Cruise Terminal Station388JPY
    Total1,519JPY

    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…

  • Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    November, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:50 Hotel (checked in after being over 2 hours late for the meeting, left luggage) 12:30 bus stop ~ Gora 12:55 – lunch – 13:46 Gora ~ 13:47 Sounzan ~ 14:40 Owakudani ~ 16:10 Owakudani ~ 16:40 Togendai ~ 17:00 Togendai (pirate ship) ~ 17:30 Hakonemachi Port ~ 17:45 Hakonemachi Port ~ 17:45 bus stop in front of hotel (disbanded at the transfer bus stop) The group transferred to a bus bound for Togendai and safely arrived at their lodging, the "Hotel."

    Title: What Is a Private Hakone Day Tour Like on a Busy Holiday Weekend? A Licensed Guide's Report The contract called for an 11:00 meeting at the local Hotel, but to allow enough time to enjoy Hakone, I judged that an earlier local meeting was necessary and changed it to 9:45 at the Hotel. However, the group not only departed late from Tokyo, but also had to wait for the next bus at Odawara Station because the first bus was over capacity. They also rode one stop past their bus stop and had to come back, arriving at the Hotel at 11:50 (more than two hours late). After checking in and leaving their luggage, we set off toward Gora, had a vegetarian lunch, took the cable car to Sounzan, and spent about 50 minutes waiting to transfer to the ropeway. Since there would be a similar waiting time for the cable car at Owakudani, and it was unclear whether we could make it in time to board the pirate ship, I considered skipping the stop at Owakudani. But having come all the way to Hakone, it would have been a shame not to see Owakudani, so we got off, briefly viewed Owakudani and Mount Fuji, waited 50 minutes for the ropeway, and made it onto the last pirate ship. The plan had been to have dinner at Hakonemachi Port and then return to the Hotel, but the guests said they preferred to skip dinner and return to the Hotel, so I accompanied them to the bus transfer stop and parted ways there. Guiding a group of guests who moved about independently, including some in wheelchairs, during the crowded holiday weekend was challenging in terms of time management and meals, but I think they were able to enjoy it in the end. During peak season, however, just reaching Owakudani took all our effort, and due to the late arrival and the heavy crowds of tourists in Hakone, we were unable to visit the planned open-air sculpture museum or Hakone Shrine. Even so, being able to see Owakudani and ride the cable car, ropeway, and pirate ship meant things went relatively well.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusIn front of Shinanoki Highland Hotel～Gora Station bus stop470JPY
    Section 2OtherGora～Sounzan430JPY
    Section 3OtherSounzan～Togendai1,500JPY
    Section 4OtherTogendai～Hakonemachi Port1,200JPY
    Section 5BusHakonemachi Port～In front of hotel830JPY
    Total4,430JPY

    Tour Report by Akey

    Hello, new friends! I’m Akio Yasui. I was born in Kyoto City and graduated from Doshisha University in Kyoto and moved to Tokyo for working. I used to work for international companies as a marketing advertising specialist. I have been to fourty five different countries until now and been to all prefectures in Japan.
    I have deep knowledge of both traditional and modern culture of Japan based on my experience in Kyoto, Tokyo and their surrounding areas such as Kamakura, Nikko, Nara, Osaka. I can design exclusive and the optinum itineray for you and guide you not only to ordinary tour courses but also casual or hidden locations. My task is making you enjoy Japan and like our culture and people. Let me guide you any where you want to visit and enjoy Japan together.

    Request Booking

    Mar 30, 2026
    851murraya
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Good time in Hakone
    Akey did a great job setting the…

    Oct 11, 2025
    S
    Stephen_M
    Incredible day in Hakone
    Viator review: Hakone 8 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Mr Akey showed me an amazing…

    May 4, 2025
    AliS7090
    Great experience
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide from Yokohama
    Akito, our private tour leader, was a fabulous…

    Mar 30, 2025
    Mark_B
    You can tailor make this…
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    You can tailor make this to anything…

  • 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

    • 0900 Meet at Hotel New Otani Tokyo EXECUTIVE HOUSE ZEN. William was using a cane as he had sprained his ankle yesterday. Changed part of the plan to accommodate this.
    • 1000 Changed the planned Rikugien to Koishikawa Korakuen
    • 1100 Ueno Park, Ueno Toshogu Shrine, Kiyomizu Kannon-do, Shogitai Memorial Monument, Statue of Saigo Takamori, Ameyoko Street
    • 1140 Asakusa, Nakamise, Sensoji Temple, Asakusa Shrine, lunch at "Towada" on Kannon Street
    • 1440 Shibuya (used the subway since both Asakusa and Shibuya are barrier-free accessible), Hachiko Statue, Scramble Crossing
    • 1500 Caught a taxi for them to board, told the driver the destination, and parted ways

    Can You Do a Private Tokyo Tour with Limited Walking? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America, and it was a pleasure to guide them. They could read some kanji and spoke English. The guests planned to stay in Tokyo for a few days, then travel to Kyoto via Hakone. As mentioned above, one of the guests had twisted an ankle the day before and arrived using a cane borrowed from the hotel. They had initially put together an itinerary because they wanted to experience the Tokyo subway, but since it involves a lot of climbing stairs, I explained that it might be difficult given the injury and suggested using taxis in part. They said it was "no problem at all," so I arranged the route to shorten the walking distances as much as possible. For this reason, instead of the planned Rikugien, we switched to Koishikawa Korakuen, which they enjoyed just as much. At Ueno Park, taxis can drive up to the area near Seiyoken, so from there we strolled on foot, used the elevator at the cherry blossom terrace beside the statue of Saigo Takamori, walked a little through Ameyoko, and then took a taxi to Kaminarimon. In Asakusa, the guests bought a hat and a daruma as souvenirs. They enjoyed handmade soba at "Towada" on Kannon-dori. In Asakusa, the elevator at the exit of Kannon-dori is available. Shibuya also has escalators, so at the end I had them ride the subway.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherHotel～Koishikawa Korakuen0JPY
    Section 2OtherKoishikawa Korakuen～Ueno Park0JPY
    Section 3OtherUeno Station～Kaminarimon0JPY
    Section 4SubwayAsakusa～Shibuya252JPY
    Total252JPY

    Tour Report by Ted

    I had worked in the international business scene for over 40 years and traveled to North America and European countries over 1000 days.
    After I retired from the business, I traveled to most of the major sightseeing spots in all 47 prefectures in Japan.

    My guide is starting from a brief history of the site where I am going to guide. I usually add a briefing about Japanese culture based on religions, such as Shinto Shrine and Buddhist temples. A geographic background behind the history is also important.
    My course includes 4 to 5 (in 6 hours) sites from the following depending on where I will pick the guests up;
    – Senso ji Temple
    – Kappabashi Kitchenware Market
    – Tokyo Skytree
    – Ueno Park
    – Nezu Shrine
    – Imperial Palace outer park
    – Tokyo Central Station, Marunouchi historic district
    – Tsukiji Fish Market
    – Koishikawa Korakuen Garden
    – Ginza
    – Odaiba
    – Hama Rikyu Garden
    – Shinjuku Gyoen Garden
    – Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
    – Roppongi
    – Meiji Shrine
    – Harajuku & Takeshita Street
    – Shibuya
    – and Any of your interest.

    I am happy to introduce Japanese Manga/Anime cultures such as Akihabara, Nakano Broadway and Ghibli related sites.
    Travelling along the JR central line where guests can stopover at major animation studios (it is not accepted to visit the inside). The majority of animation studios such as TMS Entertainment, SUNRISE, A1 Pictures etc. are located in this area. Suginami Animation museum, Studio Ghibli and Ghibli Museum are also located.
    Guests can feel old houses in the Spirited Away scene in the Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum.

    I can also provide a pilgrimage to the sacred place (shooting location) for the Shinkai Makoto animation movies such as Your name, Weathering with you, and Suzume.

    Another interesting feature is to visit authentic Japanese style pub meals such as Yakitori, Karaage, and Sushi etc.
    Asakusa Hoppy Street, Ameyoko Street, Yurakucho, Shimbashi, Shinjuku Golden gai, Shinjuku Omoide Yokocho are nice to visit.

    A Sake tasting at Sake Cellar can be an option.

    In addition to the above, I am available in the neighboring cities.

    Kawagoe is an old town developed in the 17th century. It has very close relationship with the Edo central government. Kawagoe castle ruins, Kitain temple and 500 Buddha statues will welcome the guests.
    These areas are renovated and provide an old days atmosphere.
    Japanese style sweets food stands will fascinate the guests.
    Kawagoe is about 1 – 1.5 train trip from Tokyo.

    Kamakura is the first Samurai worriers government established in the late 12th century.
    The Buddhism are introduced to Japan in the 6th century, and flourished at Nara and Kyoto later. A newer Buddhism sect such as Zen has well developed at Kamakura area.
    Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, Gigantic Buddha statue at Kotokuin Temple and the flower temple Hasedera Temple are must-see.
    Kamakura is about 1 – 1.5 train trip from Tokyo.

    I am also happy to develop any other site the guests have interest.

    Request Booking

    Jul 2, 2026
    Susan M
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Family fun in Tokyo.
    A wonderful day. Ted customized our tour…

    Jun 26, 2026
    ann r
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Educational with kind, generous guide
    My teenage sons and I learned…

    Jun 14, 2026
    141yunb
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Can’t believe all that we got to see in 6 hours
    We…

    May 18, 2026
    B
    Beth56646
    Great tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Ted and I agreed upon what we would see…