Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • Itinerary
    • * 10:30 AM – Met the guests at ANA InterContinental Tokyo.
    • * Walked to Tameike-sanno Station and traveled by subway to Asakusa.
    • * 11:00 AM – Visited the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center Observation Deck.
    • * 11:30 AM – Guided the guests through Senso-ji Temple and Nakamise Shopping Street.
    • * 12:10 PM – Lunch at the eat-in area of the delicatessen section inside Asakusa Ekimise.
    • * 1:00 PM – Visited Tokyo Station and the Marunouchi area.
    • * Visited the Imperial Palace Nijubashi Bridge.
    • * 2:10 PM – Visited Meiji Jingu Shrine.
    • * 2:50 PM – Free time on Takeshita Street.
    • * 4:15 PM – Arrived at Tokyo Tower, where the tour concluded.

    What Does a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Cover? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, the Imperial Palace, Meiji Shrine, and Tokyo Tower The weather was cloudy on the day, with the humid, muggy feel typical of the rainy season, but there were no major weather disruptions during the tour, so we were able to proceed through the itinerary as planned. After departing from the Hotel, we headed to Asakusa and toured Senso-ji Temple and the Nakamise shopping street. For lunch, we used the eat-in corner at the prepared-food section inside Asakusa Station. Afterward, we moved to Tokyo Station and viewed the Marunouchi area and the Nijubashi Bridge of the Imperial Palace. Next, we headed from Hibiya Station to Meiji Shrine, and after paying our respects, we strolled along Takeshita Street. The guests enjoyed crepes and stopped by a dog cafe, taking in the atmosphere that is unique to Harajuku. Finally, I guided the group to Tokyo Tower and saw off the guests who were joining the Top Deck Tour at the entrance, bringing the tour to a successful close. The guests were a group visiting from Oceania. One of them had visited Japan once before about 25 years earlier, while the rest were making their first trip to Japan. When I asked about their wishes in advance, they said they wanted to visit the Imperial Palace, Meiji Shrine, Senso-ji Temple, and Takeshita Street, so I incorporated all of their desired sightseeing spots into the itinerary and guided a route that ended at Tokyo Tower. Everything proceeded smoothly throughout, and the guests appeared to have thoroughly enjoyed sightseeing in Tokyo. This was my first guiding assignment at the start of July. It was not yet as hot as midsummer, but the humidity was high, and there were moments when it felt hot while walking. As the full heat of summer approaches, I felt that I would like to pay even more attention than before to the timing of hydration and breaks, keeping the guests' physical well-being in mind as I conduct tours going forward.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayTameike-sanno~Asakusa210JPY
    Section 2SubwayAsakusa~Kanda (Tokyo)180JPY
    Section 3TrainKanda (Tokyo)~Tokyo160JPY
    Section 4SubwayHibiya~Meiji-jingumae180JPY
    Section 5TrainHarajuku~Yoyogi160JPY
    Section 6SubwayYoyogi~Akabanebashi220JPY
    Total1,110JPY

    Hello, my name is Takeshi. I am a national government licensed guide interpreter with over 35 years of professional experience in Japan. Through my long career, I have developed a deep understanding of modern Japan, including its business culture, social customs, and everyday life. Originally from Kobe, I have lived in more than 20 places across Japan and the United States, which has given me a broad and flexible perspective on regional cultures and lifestyles. I am also deeply interested in historical Japan, especially Japanese religion and Buddhism, and I enjoy sharing cultural background in an easy-to-understand way. I am looking forward to meeting you and exploring Japan together.

    Sep 25, 2026
    olivier_F
    Enrichissante visite
    Viator review: Tsukiji & Toyosu Market Local Food Tour with Licensed Guide
    Une visite très enrichissante que je conseille…

    Sep 13, 2026
    710anhc
    Tokyo Tour .
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Takeshi is very friendly and kind,…

    Aug 26, 2026
    N
    nahomiep824
    Takeshi, Our Tour Guide, Made All The Difference!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    My visit…

    Aug 5, 2026
    xanthyh
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Expert tour guide
    Takeshi is an outstanding guide whose…

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Arashiyama & Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Arashiyama & Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple

    Tour Itinerary

    • 7:30 Hotel Meet (@Prince Kyoto Takaragaike)
    • 7:30-8:30 Travel (taxi; Hotel → Arashiyama Bamboo Grove Entrance)
    • 8:30-9:30 Arashiyama stroll (Bamboo Grove, Nonomiya Shrine, Kameyama Park, Togetsukyo Bridge)
    • 9:30-10:40 Iwatayama Monkey Park
    • 10:40-11:00 Travel (taxi: Arashiyama → Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple)
    • 11:00-11:30 Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple visit
    • 11:30 Tour ends. After the tour, we accompanied them to a restaurant in Shijo and said goodbye there.

    What's a Private Kyoto Tour to Arashiyama, the Monkey Park, and Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. It was everyone's first time in Kyoto. I took them to Arashiyama (the bamboo grove), the Monkey Park, and Otagi Nenbutsu-ji. Since the group traveled together, we used taxis for all transportation. Until we reached Otagi Nenbutsu-ji, it did not rain and the temperature stayed comfortable, making for a pleasant tour. It began to rain partway through our visit to Otagi Nenbutsu-ji. Today's tour was arranged so that everyone in the group could enjoy it, and the visit to Otagi Nenbutsu-ji was included at the request of one of the guests. At the Monkey Park, the group especially seemed to enjoy the children's play area near the summit.

    My name is (Mr.)Michiharu Aioi and I worked at Electronic Manufacturing Company (Panasonic) for more than 40 years in charge of overseas sales.
    I learned a lot in these 40 years and now I would like to contribute to the promotion of mutual understanding with foreign countries being involved in tourism busines utilizing my long experience in my previous company. I will do my best to make each trip very fruitful for each foreign visitor.
    As for my language ability, in addition to English, I can speak Spanish which I used in my job and I can communicate with Chinese people with intermediate level. Finally It is my great pleasure if my activity could work in the mutual understang with foreign visitors. Thanks a Lot !

    Aug 4, 2026
    Elie_S
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Wonderful and informative walking tour with Michi
    We had a lovely…

    Jul 19, 2026
    Wander35832177180
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Kyoto temple tour
    Our Kyoto guided tour (Aioi Michiharu) was a…

    Jul 16, 2026
    Abby_M
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour. Highly recommend
    Michi our guide was excellent!…

    Jul 13, 2026
    Javier P
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto gems
    Michi was incredibly courteous and informative.…

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • ① 09:30 Meet at Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto
    • ② 09:35 Itinerary explanation & about the history of Kyoto
    • ③ 09:55 Departure
    • ④ 10:20 Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • ⑤ 11:30 Kyoto Imperial Palace
    • ⑥ 12:40 Lunch in the Kawaramachi Rokkaku area
    • ⑦ 13:30 Nijo Castle
    • ⑧ 14:45 Sanjusangendo
    • ⑨ 16:00 Disband in the Shijo Kawaramachi area

    Title: What's a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like for First-Time Visitors? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan for the first time, coming from North America. Their trip included Tokyo, Hakone, and Kyoto, followed by some time in Osaka and Nara, then island cycling in the Seto Inland Sea before returning to Tokyo and heading home. Both of them listened carefully to my explanations and asked questions from time to time. Like most visitors, they were interested in the history of the shrines and temples we visited and in Japanese history in general, so today I guided them to places such as Nijo Castle and the Kyoto Imperial Palace according to their wishes. While chatting during the tour, I learned that today, July 4th, is a national holiday in North America, when families across the region enjoy barbecues, parades, and various local celebrations, spending relaxed time together. I listened while thinking that in Japan we don't celebrate our national foundation day in quite the same way. About 100 years after that independence day, during Japan's Meiji Restoration, the 15th shogun Tokugawa Yoshinobu returned political power to the emperor and the Boshin War began; around the same time in North America there was a civil war, and the old order of an earlier era was gone with the wind. Both were times of great transformation. We spent the day together sharing stories like these. In the taxi heading to Sanjusangendo, I asked the driver for a piece of trivia. The principal image of Sanjusangendo, the Thousand-Armed Kannon, was created about 800 years ago by Tankei. When you view the face from the right side it looks a little stern, and from the opposite side it looks slightly smiling. So how does it look from directly in front? It is said to reflect the heart of the person looking at it. I found this fascinating and shared the story with the guests right away, and it was enjoyable to stand before the statue at Sanjusangendo, looking at its face and discussing what we each saw. After we parted, the guests were going to join a food tour at Nishiki Market. I would be happy if I was able to contribute even a little to their wonderful trip.

    Hello, this is Kazu Akiyama, your tour guide. Nice to meet you and welcome to Japan. Thank you for joining me on the tour. Now I am a retired salaried worker, living in Osaka. I have been very much interested in not only learning Japanese history, culture, religion myself, but also talking about them (sometimes going off topics) in English with tourists from all over the world as well. I am so excited being with you as your guide on coming day! I am very much looking forward to you enjoying with me visiting the must-see places and some of the hidden gems. See you soon. Thank you – Kazu Akiyama

    Jul 29, 2026
    James_G
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Great guide and very…
    Great guide and very knowledgeable.…

    Jul 13, 2026
    peterhR6472GA
    Kyoto highlights with Kazu.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    A wonderful day with Kazu…

    Jul 12, 2026
    cgalvez73
    Fantastic tour guide
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Our guide in Kyoto was Kazu.…

    Jun 23, 2026
    Winni_H
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Highly recommended when in Kyoto
    Our tour guide…

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima

    Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:30 Meet at Hiroshima Station
    • 10:58 Travel to Miyajima
    • 12:05 Sightseeing in Miyajima
    • 14:20 Travel to Hiroshima
    • 15:05 Visit the Atomic Bomb Dome, Peace Memorial Park, and Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum
    • 17:45 Travel to Hondori and shopping
    • 18:15 Travel to Hiroshima Station
    • 18:30 Disband at Hiroshima Station

    What's a Private Tour of Hiroshima and Miyajima Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America, and they visited Hiroshima and Miyajima at the end of a two-week trip in Japan. The overseas trip planning was handled within the group. Having heard from family members who visited Japan this spring that the Miyajima World Heritage Sea Route was wonderful, and also wishing to spend as much time as possible in Hiroshima, the guests decided at the last minute to change their return route to the ferry. I was deeply moved to hear that members of the group who had never had the experience of peace education before read all of the explanations inside the Peace Memorial Museum. I was truly grateful for the encounter with such a warm and lovely group. Thank you very much!

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHiroshima Station~Miyajimaguchi420JPY
    Section 2JGA Pre-Approved FeeMiyajima Port~Motoyasubashi Pier1,200JPY
    Section 3TrainKamiyacho-nishi~Hiroshima Station240JPY
    Total1,860JPY

    Hi, nice to meet you! I am Emmy. I am so honored and happy to be your guide.
    I had been teaching at a local university in Hiroshima. After I got retired in March 2023, I started guiding. I was born and raised in Hiroshima. I love communicating with people all over the world more than anything, so I have been involved in home visit, homestay, volunteer guide for people from foreign countries.
    I always hope that our guests will take away lots of positive energy from Hiroshima, a city that was resilient and revived like a phoenix, in spite of its sad history.
    While realizing customers’ wishes, I will introduce you the beauty of Hiroshima, Miyajima and so on, which are tranquil and peaceful places with a unique charm that cannot be found in big cities.
    I am happy to answer any questions about things Japanese.
    I look forward to meeting you in person soon!!

    Jul 3, 2026
    715rachnak
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Such a great experience in Hiroshima and Miyajima!
    We…

    Jul 2, 2026
    Janine_P
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Worth the money!
    From the moment we booked our…

    May 7, 2026
    Diane_F
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Wonderful tour and guide
    Our tour guide Emmy was…

    Apr 12, 2026
    Curious613511
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    We did a 4 hour walking tour through Hiroshima where…

  • Tokyo in One Day: IMPERIAL PALACE & MEIJI JINGU SHRINE

    Tokyo in One Day: IMPERIAL PALACE & MEIJI JINGU SHRINE

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:20 meet at Air bnb in Hikifune
    • 11:00 1 THE IMPERIAL PALACE
    • 12:45 2 TSUKIJI Outer Market
    • 14:30 3 MEIJI JINGU SHRINE
    • 15:30 see off at Harajuku

    Title: What Is a Private Family Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Oceania. I met them at their accommodation, a seven-minute walk from Keisei Hikifune. The evening before, I received a request to push the departure back by one hour. Even with the adjusted pickup time of 10:00, the start was delayed, and we set off at 10:20. One member of the group had difficulty walking steadily and progressing on foot. Because of the attention this required, the itinerary did not proceed as planned. In addition, a disagreement arose within the group at Sakuradamon, which interrupted our progress. Although one of the guests announced that the tour would be ended, we barely managed to move on to Tsukiji. As the itinerary fell behind schedule, the guests decided to arrange their own ride-share from Meiji Shrine to return on their own.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKeisei Hikifune~Otemachi (Tokyo)360JPY
    Section 2SubwaySakuradamon~Shintomicho (Tokyo)180JPY
    Total540JPY

    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.

    Sep 21, 2026
    judygU2038FZ
    A wonderful time in Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had such a…

    Jul 21, 2026
    Sandra_U
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Great Individualized Tour!
    Our tour guide, Masa, was wonderful. The tour…

    Apr 3, 2026
    Celal_S
    Viator review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a great tour even…
    We had a great tour even…

    Mar 30, 2026
    Johanna H
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Early Morning Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    6 hour Guided Tour of Tokyo
    We booked the 6…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Kiyosumi Garden & Meiji Shrine

    Tokyo in One Day: Kiyosumi Garden & Meiji Shrine

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Meet guests at the hotel
    • 09:40 Tsukiji Hongwanji, outer market
    • 11:20 Kiyosumi Garden, lunch
    • 12:40 Sumida River Terrace from Kuramae Umaya Bridge
    • 13:00 Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center, Kaminarimon, Nakamise, main hall
    • 14:20 Meiji Shrine
    • 15:00 Tour ends at Harajuku Station

    What's a Full-Day Private Walking Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tsukiji, Kiyosumi Garden, Asakusa, and Meiji Shrine The guests were visitors from North America. They had arrived in Japan the day before and still seemed to be experiencing jet lag, but they walked actively throughout the tour. At Tsukiji, they showed interest in the interior of Honganji Temple, and at the outer market they enjoyed the variety of shops and the unique atmosphere. At Kiyosumi Garden, they were impressed by the beautifully maintained and tranquil Japanese garden. In particular, while walking across the stepping stones over the pond, they encountered carp and turtles and took many photos, thoroughly enjoying the stroll. After lunch, we took the subway to Kuramae and walked along the promenade beside the Sumida River toward Asakusa. After getting an overview at the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center, they enjoyed selecting souvenirs while walking from Kaminarimon through Nakamise. After visiting the main hall, we took the subway to Meiji Shrine. As we walked from the torii gate along the approach, they were moved by the sacred, deep forest. Adding explanations at various points along the way, we proceeded to the main shrine, and after the visit the tour concluded at Harajuku Station.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayEbisu~Tsukiji210JPY
    Section 2SubwayTsukiji Market~Kiyosumi-Shirakawa220JPY
    Section 3SubwayKiyosumi-Shirakawa~Kuramae180JPY
    Section 4SubwayAsakusa~Meiji-Jingumae260JPY
    Total870JPY

    I am a certified guide-interpreter based in Tokyo.
    I was born and raised in Tokyo, so I am familiar with Tokyo and its surrounding areas. Please leave anything related to the Tokyo area to me.
    Tokyo is not only full of Japanese charm but also has many unique aspects.
    The always-bustling Tsukiji Outer Market conveys Japan’s food culture.
    Asakusa conveys Japanese traditions and culture through old temples, shrines and long-established stores.
    Shibuya spreads Japanese pop culture.
    You can immerse yourself in history and culture in the quiet natural surroundings such as the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace or Meiji Shrine.
    Tokyo is a treasure trove of attractions for travelers. Please come and experience the wonderful Tokyo with me.

    Sep 29, 2026
    532yeldarbs
    Insights to Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo in 1 Day from Yokohama: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    We were fortunate to have had…

    Sep 28, 2026
    G3219WFjoshp
    A great day with Shigeru!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Shigeru is a fantastic…

    Sep 28, 2026
    E8957WUnathanb
    Great day in Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Shingeru was great and very…

    Sep 23, 2026
    scottmR2068WG
    Tokyo walking tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had an excellent time being…

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Kiyomizudera & Kenninji

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Kiyomizudera & Kenninji

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00 Hotel The Celestine Kyoto Gion
    • 11:30 Kiyomizudera (500) by taxi
    • Sannenzaka by walking
    • Yasaka-no-to
    • Yasakakoshindo
    • Ninenzaka by walking
    • Gion area by walking
    • Yasaka Shrine
    • Hanamikoji
    • 14:10 Kenninji (800) by walking
    • 15:00 Hotel The Celestine Kyoto Gion
    •    End of the tour

    Title: What Can You See on a 4-Hour Private Walking Tour of Kyoto's Gion and Higashiyama? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. Since it was a 4-hour tour, they wanted to explore the area around their hotel, so I planned an itinerary that started with a taxi ride to Kiyomizu-dera Temple, followed by walking down toward the Gion area. In the afternoon it began to drizzle, but since it was not heavy rain, some of the guests bought an umbrella while others walked without one. One of the guests seemed rather bored, so I asked whether they knew Studio Ghibli, and their eyes lit up as they mentioned having seen Spirited Away and said they wanted to buy something related to it. So I took them to the Donguri Republic shop on Ninenzaka. Our final stop was Kennin-ji Temple. Although it was a 4-hour tour, we had walked almost continuously without much rest, so the guests were a little tired, and they were pleased that their hotel was located right where we exited Kennin-ji Temple.

    I’m Ryoichi Kazuma and my nickname is “Kazz”. I live in Kyotanabe city next to Kyoto city. I want guests to enjoy Kyoto by seeing and experiencing not only from outside but also from inside. I offer various information from daily matters to traditional cultures. Most destinations in Kyoto are located on the eastern side or the western side. As I want to guide guests to as many destinations as possible, I make an efficient itinerary and recommend a taxi use to save time. Additionally, I take pictures at various spots and finally share the link to my storage. By doing so, guests can download their favorite pictures from my storage. Please enjoy Kyoto night and day!

    Sep 25, 2026
    Marvin_F
    Kazz is an outstanding…
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Kazz is an outstanding experiencedand friendly…

    Sep 21, 2026
    Laura_K
    Day in Kyoto with Kazz
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Kazz was an amazing…

    Aug 27, 2026
    M6034YWthomasm
    Worth it
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    The day went by so quickly, a…

    Aug 10, 2026
    Sez042
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Awesome experience
    Tour guide Kazz was great. Very informative and showed…

  • Osaka in Half a Day: Shitennoji Temple & Kuromon Market

    Osaka in Half a Day: Shitennoji Temple & Kuromon Market

    Tour Itinerary

    • 12:30 Meet @ JR Osaka Station
    • 13:00 @ Shitennoji Temple
    • 13:45 @ Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine
    • 15:00 @ Kuromon Market
    • 16:15 Disband @ Kuromon Market

    What's a Rainy-Day Private Tour of Osaka Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Shitennoji, Sumiyoshi Taisha, and Kuromon Market The guests were visitors from North America, and the transfers went smoothly. Because the hotel check-in was delayed, the tour started about 30 minutes behind schedule. The guests seemed to have a great affinity for Japan and showed a strong interest in the country. At each spot, they listened attentively to the guide's explanations. On the way to Shitennoji Temple, we stopped by "Kongo Gumi," which was founded by descendants of the carpenters that the temple's founder, Prince Shotoku, invited from the Korean peninsula at the time, and which is recorded in the Guinness Book of Records as the world's oldest company (over 1,400 years old); the guests were very interested in this explanation. At Sumiyoshi Taisha, they experienced praying and also picked up the popular "Godairiki" pebbles and purchased small amulet pouches. The weather was unfortunately rainy today, but as a result there were fewer people at the spots and we were able to sightsee smoothly. However, since we arrived at Kuromon Market, our last stop, after 15:00, some of the shops had already closed. I presented a handmade drawstring pouch, and the guests were very pleased. Although we started about 30 minutes late, the guests said it was fine to end at the originally planned time, so we finished about 15 minutes early. I heard that a family member is also planning to visit Japan, and since one of the guests is very fond of sake, I recommended a brewery tour in Kobe, and received the comment that they would love to visit. Once again, the guests treated me very warmly and were truly likable, for which I felt grateful.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayHigashi-Umeda~Shitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka240JPY
    Section 2TrainTennoji-ekimae~Sumiyoshitorii-mae240JPY
    Section 3TrainSumiyoshi Taisha~Namba (Nankai Line)240JPY
    Total720JPY

    Dear my guests,

    This is (Mr.) Yama, greeting from Kobe, Japan.
    I would like to warmly welcome you to Japan this time. I am from the city of Kobe, which is of course, well-known for very tasty Kobe Beef . You can taste
    real genuine Kobe Beef here. Kobe is also called “Home of Japanese Sake” with lots of Sake breweries, and I recommend you would visit those breweries
    if you have any interest in Japanese Sake as well as one aspect of Japanese cultures. Of course, you can have tastings of various kinds of Sake there.

    Whenever during the tour, I always try to make it safe, pleasant and comfortable for all of the guests, which is my first priority. I am very much confident
    that you can have a pleasant and unforgettable experience in Japan. Just tell me about your preference; what you would like to like to see, have, know
    and eat and so on. Particularly, I hold the license for cooking qualified by the government here and maybe, I can reply you for questions related to the
    foods here. In this respect, I strongly recommend you would try not only famous Japanese cuisine such as Sushi, Tempura or Suki-yaki but some
    Japanese traditional local foods, like Tako-yaki, Okonomi-yaki and Kushkatsu. They are sometimes called the soul foods of Japan. Here is the brief
    explanation for these three foods.

    1) Tako-yaki
    Tako-yaki is a snack filled with pieces of octopus in a batter of flour , egg and soup stock. You can call them octopus dumplings or balls. “Tako” means
    octopus and “yaki” means grilled or broiled.
    2) Okonomi-yaki
    This word Okonomi-yaki means “cook just as you like” and you can use whatever you like as toppings, such as beef, pork, shrimp, squid and octopus.
    Okonomi-yaki is round shape and just like pancakes or pizza in shape mainly made from egg, flour and water.
    3) Kushi-katsu
    Kushi-katsu is skewered cutlet or deep-fried foods on a stick. “Kushi” means skewer and “katsu” means cutlet. Various kinds of foods are used for
    ingredients such as beef, pork, chicken, shrimp, squid, octopus and lots of kinds of vegetables.

    Actually, the western Japan including Osaka, Kobe and Himeji is called as “Home of such local soul foods”. You should give it a try and I am sure
    that you like them very much.

    I sincerely hope that I can be your tour guide this time in Kobe, Osaka and Himeji. If my guests said to me after the tour, “I have had a very good
    and pleasant time with you today. I hope I can come here again and name you as our guide”, which is my great pleasure. Moreover, I would be
    great honored if they say “I like Japan now thanks to you”.

    Looking forward to meeting you soon here.
    Doomo Arigato Gozaimasu!
    Yama

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

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

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

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

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Yanaka & Asakusa

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Yanaka & Asakusa

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet @ Hotel
    • 9:40 Yanaka (Tennoji, Yanaka Cemetery, Yanaka Ginza)
    • 11:10 Ueno Park
    • 12:00 Asakusa (Nakamise, Sensoji Temple, Asakusa Shrine)
    • 13:00 Dismiss @ Ramen Shop (Asakusa)

    What's a Private Tokyo Walking Tour of Yanaka, Ueno, and Asakusa Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America who wanted to learn about Japanese culture, so they requested Yanaka, Ueno, and Asakusa. At Yanaka Cemetery, they were amazed to see the many large gravestones. Along Yanaka Ginza, they bought souvenirs such as accessories and enjoyed matcha lattes as they strolled. After that, we visited Toshogu Shrine and Kiyomizu Kannon-do in Ueno before heading to Asakusa, where they were overwhelmed by the huge crowds. We walked through Nakamise, Sensoji Temple, and Asakusa Shrine, and since it was exactly 1:00 p.m., we said goodbye in front of a ramen shop. The guests were very genuine and it was a lovely group to guide.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinjuku~Nippori260JPY
    Section 2TrainNippori~Ueno150JPY
    Section 3SubwayUeno~Asakusa180JPY
    Total590JPY

    Hello,
    I’m Rumi.Welcome to Japan!!
    I’m a government-licensed guide in the Tokyo area.
    I’m so excited to have a chance to show you my favorite places in Tokyo.
    Tokyo is a fantastic city with many aspects like history,culture and food.
    What interests you about Tokyo?
    What kind of Japanese food would you like to try?
    I’ll take you to various places according to your request.
    My favorite spot is Meiji Shrine.
    It’s so peaceful that I’m sure you like it.
    I really like to talk with foreigners about various topics.So, I love my job.
    I look forward to meeting and guiding you soon.

    Sep 29, 2026
    Darrin_T
    Tokyo Tour with Rumi
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Local tour guide Rumi took…

    Sep 29, 2026
    anettesoegaardn
    Rumi Hosoya is a very good tour-guide.
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Our guide was Rumi…

    Sep 25, 2026
    Frances_K
    Rumi was a wonderful…
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Rumi was a wonderful guide that provided…

    Sep 19, 2026
    K6328IFcarolinel
    Tokyo highlights
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Had a great day
    Rumi was very…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Akihabara

    Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Akihabara

    Tour Itinerary

    • 07:50 Meet up @ Hotel
    • 08:00 Shibuya Scramble Crossing・Hachiko
    • 08:20 Meiji Shrine
    • 09:50 Imperial Palace
    • 11:00 Sensoji Temple
    • 12:00 Lunch @ Sushizanmai Asakusa Kaminarimon Branch
    • 13:15 Akihabara
    • 14:15 Disband @ Shibuya Station

    What Does a Private Tokyo Day Tour Cover? A Licensed Guide's Report on Meiji Shrine, the Imperial Palace, Senso-ji, and Akihabara The guests were a group visiting from Oceania, and it was their first time in Japan. After sightseeing in Tokyo, they planned to visit Hakone, Kyoto, and Osaka. At Meiji Shrine, they seemed impressed by the quiet and solemn atmosphere, which was very different from Shibuya. They also purchased several omamori charms as souvenirs. At the Imperial Palace, they listened with interest to my historical explanations about the role of the Emperor, the Meiji Restoration, and the Edo shogunate. At Senso-ji, they were interested in learning about the difference between temples and shrines, as well as the Kaminarimon Gate. In Akihabara, one of the guests, who is a fan of Japanese anime, purchased several anime figures and other goods. Since I accommodated the guests' requests as they wished, I believe they were satisfied.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShibuya~Harajuku160JPY
    Section 2SubwayMeiji-jingumae~Nijubashimae210JPY
    Section 3TrainTokyo~Ueno200JPY
    Section 4SubwayUeno~Asakusa180JPY
    Section 5SubwayAsakusa~Suehirocho (Tokyo)180JPY
    Section 6TrainAkihabara~Shibuya260JPY
    Total1,190JPY

    I am Seizo Kamiuto, National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter (English). I was born in Kagoshima City in Kyushu (Southern part of Japan) and grew up there until the graduation from a high school. I came to Tokyo to enter a University in Tokyo and since then, I have lived in Tokyo for more than 40 years and therefore I know Tokyo and its suburbs and Kagoshima City very well. After retiring from an IT company, I have been working as a Guide Interpreter of English since March 2018. I have guided many overseas guests to the popular sightseeing spots in Tokyo, Kamakura, Mt. Fuji area (Kawaguchiko Lake etc.), Hakone, Nikko, Yokohama, Kawagoe and Kagoshima and so on. I have received good reviews from many guests. I can explain the history and the culture of Japan in detail. I look forward to an opportunity to guide you in Japan. Thank you. Seizo Kamiuto

    Sep 27, 2026
    jonaJ5014ZK
    Walking tour of Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Seizo was a tremendously fabulous…

    Sep 11, 2026
    M7402TTsharonp
    Higly recommend
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Had an amazing tour with Seizi Kaminto.…

    Sep 8, 2026
    OnAir57127583503
    Amazing Experience with Kamakura Day Tour
    Tripadvisor review: Japan Guide Agency
    We had an excellent time with Seizo Kamiuto as our…

    Sep 4, 2026
    B2319ZKjoseo
    Pleasant stroll through HISTORY
    Tripadvisor review: Kawagoe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We had a great time learning about…