Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo in One Day: Kanda Station to Shibuya Station & Meiji Shrine

    Tokyo in One Day: Kanda Station to Shibuya Station & Meiji Shrine

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Pick up at Hotel
    • 8:15 – 8:50 Travel from Tameike-Sanno Station to Asakusa Station
    • 8:50 – 10:30 Komagatado, Senso-ji Temple, Asakusa Shrine, Nakamise, Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center
    • 10:30 – 10:45 Travel from Asakusa Station to Suehirocho Station
    • 10:45 – 11:20 Stroll around Akihabara, shopping at Bic Camera AKIBA
    • 11:20 – 11:45 From Kanda Station to Shibuya Station
    • 11:45 – 13:00 Scramble Crossing, Hachiko, Miyashita Park, lunch at Scramble Square
    • 13:00 – 13:10 From Shibuya Station to Meiji-jingumae Station
    • 13:10 – 14:00 Visit Meiji Shrine
    • 14:00 – 14:20 Travel from Yoyogi Station to Tameike-Sanno Station, disband

    Title: What Can You See on a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Shibuya, and Meiji Shrine Communication had been handled entirely through a messaging app from the start, so the prior exchanges were not recorded in the system. The guests had wished to visit Meiji Shrine, Shibuya Crossing, Shinjuku Gyoen, and Akihabara, and planned to visit Senso-ji on their own the following morning. However, since Shinjuku Gyoen is closed on Mondays, I rearranged the itinerary to include Senso-ji on the tour and move Shinjuku Gyoen to the next day. We arrived in Asakusa early, so we first visited Komagatado, the birthplace of Senso-ji, and since the Nakamise shopping street was just beginning to open and less crowded, the guests took many photos at the Kaminarimon gate and within the temple grounds. On the way back, we passed through Nakamise again, and the guests were amazed by how crowded it had become. They mentioned wanting to stop at a Nintendo store somewhere during the day, and they were able to get the Nintendo Switch they wanted at a large electronics store in Akihabara. At the Shibuya Scramble Crossing, they wanted to take a photo with the Hachiko statue, but the line looked like it would take about a 30-minute wait, so we opted for a photo from the side instead. Here they said they wanted to have wagyu beef for lunch, so we went to Shibuya Scramble Square. The first place we looked at was 15,000 yen per person, which was quite expensive, and the shabu-shabu lunch restaurant had a long waiting line, but a place serving wagyu beef bowls could seat us at the counter, so I helped them order the 3,500 yen meal and they dined together. From the far exit of Meiji-Jingumae Station, I explained about the Omotesando buildings covered in a recent training session, and then we visited Meiji Shrine. After the tour, the guests planned to go to Ginza on their own, so I offered to end the tour in Ginza, but since they wanted to drop off their luggage at the hotel first before heading out, we parted ways at Tameike-Sanno Station. They took a great many photos and posted them to social media on the spot, so I chose a route that would be as photogenic as possible.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayTameike-Sanno~Asakusa210JPY
    Section 2SubwayAsakusa~Suehirocho180JPY
    Section 3SubwayKanda~Shibuya210JPY
    Section 4SubwayShibuya~Meiji-jingumae180JPY
    Section 5SubwayYoyogi~Tameike-Sanno290JPY
    Total1,070JPY

    I am Tatsuki Endo, English speaking guide, as well as Kikisake-shi (Sommelier of Sake) and Beer navigator.
    My usual activity is walking tours around Tokyo area, including Yokohama, Kamakura and Hakone. There are a lot to see, just let me know what your interests are and I can suggest where to visit.

    If you are interested in hidden gem, here are some examples;

    Kawasaki, located between Tokyo and Yokohama near Haneda Airport, is the second station of the fifty-three stations of the Tokaido, the 400 years old highway towards Kyoto from Edo (old name of Tokyo). You can do Hand-cut glass experiment, stopping at a bar for sake tasting, visiting Kawasaki-Daishi temple that receives 3 million worshippers in the new year period.

    Another spot is Echigo-Yuzawa in Niigata prefecture, 75 minutes from Tokyo by Shinkansen train. Echigo-Yuzawa is “Onsen” (hot springs) town. You can enjoy visiting Sake brewery, skiing in winter, veiwing Sakura (cherry blossom) in spring. Appreciation of contemporary art displays in open air and old carvings at temples, in neighboring towns will be also memorable experience.

    I am so excited to show you around !

    Tatsuki
    Government Licensed Guide Interpreter (English)
    Kikisake-shi (Sommelier of Sake)
    Beer Navigator

    Jul 22, 2026
    melanierK3084ZH
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Memorable!
    Our private tour with Tatsuki was fabulous! He was friendly,…

    Jun 28, 2026
    Narzahni_C
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Excellent Tour Guide
    I had a wonderful experience with Tatsuki. He was…

    May 27, 2026
    nomadicmongrel
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great introduction to the city
    Tatsuki Endo showed us around some Tokyo…

    Apr 20, 2026
    B8510VNrichardf
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide from Yokohama
    The Perfect Shore Excursion to Explore Tokyo
    Four of us…

  • Toyosu Tuna Auction & Tsukiji Local Food Tour

    Toyosu Tuna Auction & Tsukiji Local Food Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1.500 ホテル
    • 2.520 豊洲
    • 3.535 豊洲ガイドツアー開始
    • 4.630 寿司の朝食
    • 5.700 中間棟&ショッピング
    • 6.800 築地場外市場
    • 7.840 ホテルに戻って終了

    Title: What Is a Private Toyosu and Tsukiji Fish Market Tour in Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Because this guide booking was made early, I applied for the tuna auction lottery at Toyosu and won a spot, which allowed the guests to watch the auction from a closer vantage point. The guests were delighted and enthusiastically took many, many photos, enjoying every moment. Afterward, they savored various cuts of tuna at a sushi restaurant in the management building. As some of the guests preferred a vegetarian meal, they ordered cucumber rolls and kanpyo rolls and enjoyed those instead. We then went to the intermediate wholesalers' building, where, although viewing was through windows, the guests could see the actual display of fish, and at the shop on the 4th floor they bought a T-shirt as a gift. At Tsukiji, the guests were moved to see the tuna that had been won at auction being expertly cut and prepared. We limited the outer market to browsing the shops, and due to time constraints, I saw the guests off at their hotel to conclude the tour. They were very pleased and kindly commented, "We are so glad we booked a guide."

    My name is KAZU HAKATA. 73years old (as of end AUG2025). I started as a guide from March 2023. Graduated from KYOTO Univ Intl Economics and MBA from INSEAD in France. (14 years in overseas, LUX, Paris, Hong Kong) . I used to work in Banking, Telecommunication, Air Line, Financial Trading as CFO. I did more than 150 days of Guide since 2023,Tokyo( most of the Guides), Nikko, Hakone, Kamakura, and other area. Born in Hyogo Pref. I lived 26 years in Kansai and know quite well Kyoto, Nara, Osaka ,Kobe, Wakayama ( Koya san + Kumano Kodo).
    I know not only touristic sites, but I can show you hidden charming points of JAPAN. If you can enjoy your tour in JAPAN, it is also my pleasure. I will do as much as I can to assist you to understand Japanese history, culture, nature, and a real life in JAPAN.
    [FRANCAIS]
    J’ai commencee a Guide apres avoir obtenu Diplome de Francaise en fevrier 2023. Jusqu’a maintenant j’ai effectue plus de 150 guides dont 1/4 francais. Principalement a Tokyo , mais de temps en temps aux Nikko, Kamakura, Kawaguchiko, Hakone, Takayama, Shirakawago, Kanazawa, Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, Okayama, Naoshima.
    A Tokyo, les sites frequentes sont Tsukiji, Hama Rikyu, Asakusa, Jardin Imperial, Rikugi-En , Yanaka, Ueno, Ameyoko, Musee Nationale, Akihabara, Jardin de Korakuen , Harajuku, Sanctuaire de Meiji, ruelle de Tekeshita , Aoyama, Shibuya, Temple de Gotokuji, etc.
    Comme je suis ne a Hyogo ( ouest du Japon) et etudie a Kyoto, Je connais bien Kyoto,Nara,Osaka, Mont Koya, Hieizan. En plus j’ai travaille a Osaka 2017-2019.pendant cette periode j’ai souvent visitee des sites touristiques a Kyoto, Nara, Osaka. J’ai fait les randonnes a Kumono Kodo et 33 temples en Kansai.

    Apr 4, 2026
    Rebecca_M
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kazu Rocks!!
    Kazu was a gem! From our booking well in advance…

    Oct 19, 2025
    geoffreysE7617EB
    6-hour Tokyo Tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    My guide, Kazuyasu Hakata, modified some of the tour,…

    Oct 9, 2025
    zglus
    6 Hr walking Tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kazuyas brought us all around Tokyo and was…

    Sep 26, 2025
    JulieD4351
    We saw the fish market, many shrines, the busy walkway, and much more!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed…

  • Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour

    Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at the Shinkansen ticket gate of Hiroshima Station, travel to Miyajima by JR and ferry 11:30 Miyajima, Great Torii Gate, Itsukushima Shrine, Five-Storied Pagoda, Omotesando 13:50 Travel from Miyajima Pier to Peace Park via JR Yokogawa Station 15:10 Monuments such as the Atomic Bomb Dome, Peace Memorial Museum 17:20 Travel to Hiroshima Station by JR bus 17:40 Disband at the restaurant district of Hiroshima Station

    What Is a Kyoto-Based Day Trip to Miyajima and Hiroshima Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group of university friends visiting from North America, and they spent the final day of their trip to Japan on a day trip from Kyoto to Miyajima and Hiroshima. Everyone was a strong walker, so I was able to guide them smoothly. After viewing Itsukushima Shrine and the five-story pagoda, the group ate standing up — enjoying momiji manju, fried oysters, grilled skewers, curry bread, and more — which saved time on lunch as we headed toward the Peace Park. Everyone had seen the film "Oppenheimer," and each of them toured the site with great interest. Recently, visits to Hiroshima by young visitors from North America have been increasing. I guided them to the okonomiyaki restaurant area inside Hiroshima Station, where we said our goodbyes.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHiroshima Station~Miyajimaguchi420JPY
    Section 2TrainMiyajimaguchi~Yokogawa330JPY
    Section 3TrainYokogawa Station~Atomic Bomb Dome220JPY
    Section 4BusPeace Park~Hiroshima Station North Exit220JPY
    Total1,190JPY

    I have been an English and Italian guide for 10 years in Hiroshima, Miyajima, Okayama, Kurashiki, Iwakuni, Himeji, Osaka, Kochi and Sanin. I used to work for the Japanese trading house in Milan Italy for 9 years, Ho Chi Minh City Vietnam for 2 years and Kobe /Osaka for 25 years. I was engaged in the textile and apparel division covering European and Asian market. Moreover, I worked for a food company who produce special sauce for okonomiyaki, famous local food. After retiring, I live in Hiroshima, my hometown, working as a tourist guide mainly, sometimes as an Italian interpreter for A-bomb survivor testimonies and translation. I guide you about history, culture, architecture, art, industry, economy and so on according to your interests and wishes. My hobby is oil painting of the scenery of the Inland Sea of Seto, the first national park of Japan and visiting art museum. I am interested in impressionists and works during renaissance.

    Mar 21, 2025
    Carol B
    Peaceful Tour with Kind Local
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Relaxed tour with…

    Dec 10, 2024
    Catherine_U
    Great Half Day with Shin!
    Viator review: Miyajima Half-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    We enjoyed our half day tour…

    Dec 8, 2024
    William W
    11/10 Great Guide
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Our guide, Mr. Itaki, is…

    Oct 7, 2024
    Shiv_K
    We had a lovely visit of…
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    We had a…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Ginkakuji Temple & Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

    Kyoto in One Day: Ginkakuji Temple & Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Garrya Nijo Castle Kyoto meet up
    • 9:30 Ginkakuji Temple
    • 11:00 Gion Hanamikoji ~ Tatsumi Bridge stroll
    • 12:10 Lunch at Gion Gonbei
    • 13:15 Toji Temple
    • 14:25 Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 15:00 Disband at Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine entrance

    What Is a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Ginkaku-ji, Gion, and Fushimi Inari Today I guided the group visiting from North America. It was their first time in Japan, and they planned to visit Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. Although there were many school-trip students on the way to and from the sites, the interior of Ginkaku-ji was very quiet, which the guests were delighted about. The Gion district also had fewer people than usual, which was very pleasant. I took them to Gonbei, an udon restaurant frequented by kabuki actors who perform at Minamiza Theater, and they were very pleased. They were also happy to be able to purchase matcha on Shijo Street. The five-story pagoda of To-ji had a lovely atmosphere, and Fushimi Inari Taisha also had fewer visitors than usual, so it could be enjoyed at leisure. At the souvenir shop near the exit, they were very happy to find the tanuki figurine they had mentioned wanting to buy. I believe they enjoyed the day.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusGinkakuji-michi~Gion230JPY
    Section 2BusShijo Keihan~Toji Higashimon-mae230JPY
    Total460JPY

    Thank you very much for choosing JGA experience, and please allow me to briefly introduce myself. I’m Kaeko Tanigawa, your tour guide, and I have been showing tourists from abroad around mainly in Kyoto, Nara and Osaka areas. Every year I’ve guided my guests through those areas for over 80 times. I always try to do my best to help my guests explore and enjoy our unique and attractive locations, and I’ve been lucky enough to receive so many 5-star reviews from the guests I hosted. I’d like to help make your visit to Japan one of the most wonderful memories in your life. I’m really looking forward to seeing you soon. Thank you very much.

    Jul 25, 2026
    135ulrikh
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Half-day with private guide in Kyoto
    We spent half a day…

    Jul 24, 2026
    J6711TVnancyb
    Tripadvisor review: Japan Guide Agency
    Family Fun Day in Kyoto with young children
    Kaeko Tanigawa was fantastic at helping us create…

    Jul 13, 2026
    elizabethtW414DU
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto Private Tour
    Kaeko was absolutely amazing from start…

    Jul 12, 2026
    johnkE8649IH
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Excellent Kyoto Day Tour
    We had a wonderful experience touring Kyoto…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Kinkaku-ji & Fushimi Inari Taisha

    Kyoto in One Day: Kinkaku-ji & Fushimi Inari Taisha

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Meeting point: Hotel MyStays Kyoto Shijo
    • 10:15 Travel: Hotel → Kinkaku-ji (subway・bus)
    • 10:20 Sightseeing ①: Kinkaku-ji
    • 11:10 Travel: Kinkaku-ji → Arashiyama (taxi)
    • 11:30 Sightseeing ②: Arashiyama (Bamboo Path → Tenryu-ji → Oi River → Togetsukyo Bridge)
    • 14:20 Lunch・Break (Arashiyama)
    • 13:30 Travel: Katsura River → JR Saga-Arashiyama (taxi)
    • 13:40 Travel: JR Saga-Arashiyama → JR Inari (train)
    • 14:00 Sightseeing ③: Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 14:40 Travel: JR Inari → JR Kyoto (train)
    • 15:00 Dismissal: JR Kyoto (in front of subway ticket gate)

    What Is a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like When You Can't Reach the Guests Beforehand? A Licensed Guide's Report This time, the guests were visitors traveling and sightseeing in Japan from Oceania. After I received the "guide confirmed" notice in September, I immediately sent my first message, but the guests (the point of contact was one of them) did not reply at all until the day itself. In the meantime, I stayed in contact with the [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) coordinator and also tried to reach out via a messaging app, but in the end there was no communication from the guests themselves. The [Japan Guide Agency](https://www.j-g-a.org/) coordinator advised me, "The meeting point is confirmed, so please just go to the hotel at the designated time. If the guests do not appear, withdrawing in accordance with the regulations is an option." The guests' travel agency also requested that I go to the hotel at the designated time. The biggest problem when you cannot reach the guests beforehand is the itinerary, especially the places to visit. If where the guests want to go remains a blank slate, then even if we manage to meet at the meeting point, working out the itinerary can take a lot of time, and I was worried that the start might be significantly delayed. So in this case, based on my experience, I drew up a draft itinerary assuming a "typical itinerary that would likely leave most guests generally satisfied," and went into the day with that. On the day, I arrived at the accommodation 30 minutes early, confirmed the guests' stay at the front desk, and waited in the lobby. From 15 minutes before, I also held up a "Welcome Board" and waited; after about 20 minutes, I was finally able to meet the two guests. We soon went through introductions and discussed the tour itinerary. I mainly communicated with the guest who seemed to be leading the decisions for the tour, and in the end we finalized the itinerary I had prepared. An important point that became clear at this stage was that one of the guests had knee pain in the left leg. Again, I felt that "if only I had known this in advance, I could have adjusted the modes of transport in the itinerary," but I proposed that "if long-distance walking becomes necessary, let's consider using a taxi as we go," and the guests agreed. Once the tour actually began, the knee condition was not as bad as it might have been, and by avoiding stairs as much as possible and using escalators and elevators when moving between stations on public transportation, we managed to get through it. However, since the routes from Kinkaku-ji to Arashiyama, and from the Togetsukyo Bridge in Arashiyama to JR Saga-Arashiyama Station, involve a lot of walking, we consulted and decided to use a taxi. There were various difficulties beforehand, but the guests had a strong interest in and curiosity about Japan's history and culture, so they listened attentively to my explanations and asked many questions. Not being able to reach the guests directly until the day itself was an unprecedented experience for me, but I was somehow able to finish it safely. I was also very much helped by everyone at [Japan Guide Agency](https://www.j-g-a.org/). Thank you very much.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShijo~Kitaoji260JPY
    Section 2BusKitaoji Bus Center~Kinkakuji-michi230JPY
    Section 3TrainSaga-Arashiyama~Inari240JPY
    Section 4TrainInari~Kyoto150JPY
    Total880JPY

    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.

    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…

  • Osaka in One Day: Osaka Castle & Umeda Area

    Osaka in One Day: Osaka Castle & Umeda Area

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meet up @Hotel Granvia Osaka
    • 9:55-12:10@Osaka Castle
    • 12:40-14:00 Lunch@Shinsekai
    • 14:20-14:40@Kuromon Market
    • 14:50-15:25@Dotonbori, Hozenji
    • 15:45-16:20@Umeda Area
    • 16:20 Disband@Hotel Granvia Osaka

    What's a Private Osaka Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Shinsekai, Dotonbori, and Umeda The guests were a group visiting from Oceania. On the day of the tour, they came to Osaka from Kyoto. Although the itinerary had been decided in advance, the day before the tour they requested a change, saying they had already seen many shrines and temples in Tokyo and Kyoto and wanted to visit other kinds of destinations instead. I adjusted the itinerary on the day of the tour, and I was relieved that they enjoyed a kushikatsu lunch in Shinsekai and had a good time in Dotonbori. After returning to Umeda, everyone had different requests: some of the guests wanted to visit the Pokémon Center, one of the guests was tired and wanted a place to rest, and another wanted me to help search for sunglasses that had been left on a JR train in Kyoto the previous day. I ran around trying to meet each of their requests. In the end, the lost item had not been turned in, which was an unfortunate result, but the guests kindly said, "You are our best guide," and I felt that everything had come to a good conclusion.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayUmeda~Tanimachi 4-chome240JPY
    Section 2SubwayTanimachi 4-chome~Ebisucho240JPY
    Section 3SubwayDobutsuen-mae~Nipponbashi190JPY
    Section 4SubwayNamba~Umeda240JPY
    Total910JPY

    I’m Sahiko Ogura, Sachiko literally means ‘happy child’, please call me Sachiko or Sachi for short. I was born and raised in Osaka. I’ve been guide for 6 years mainly in Osaka, Kyoto and Nara after having worked far trading company. I love traveling and visited about 30 countries, where I had a great time and experienced something new and exciting. I also like sports, tea ceremony and gardening, I’m growing veritable and flower in my garden. Please let me know your interest and anything what you would like to do during your tour. I’m happy to make an itinerary customized for you.
    I’m looking forward to meeting you and exploring in my home town!

    Jul 30, 2026
    135ulrikh
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We spent half…

    Jul 12, 2026
    angiegI1120DY
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Great tour! Great guide!
    Sachi was a great guide. She customized…

    Jul 8, 2026
    surferbikerdude1
    We Miss Osaka Already
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Sachiko O. was our guide…

    Jun 23, 2026
    Relax64382499520
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A memorable experience!
    Wonderful experience with an amazing guide! Ms. Sachiko Ogura,…

  • Tochigi in One Day: Tobu Nikko & Tamozawa Imperial Villa Memorial

    Tochigi in One Day: Tobu Nikko & Tamozawa Imperial Villa Memorial

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00- Tobu Nikko Station
    • 9:20- Shinkyo Bridge
    • 9:40- Rinnoji Temple Sanbutsudo
    • 10:20- Nikko Toshogu Shrine
    • 12:15- Lunch @ Soba Restaurant Hayashiya
    • 13:17- Kanmangafuchi Abyss
    • 14:00- Tamozawa Imperial Villa Memorial Park
    • 15:15- Tobu Nikko Station

    What Is a Rainy-Day Private Nikko Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. It rained from the morning, so we spent most of the itinerary walking under umbrellas. There were many tour groups as well, and it took time to make our way through the crowds and take detours. The rain became heavier than the forecast had predicted, so we did not go to the inner shrine and finished the morning portion of the itinerary. When I had guided guests at Toshogu Shrine on a previous occasion, one person slipped and fell at the entrance of the Yakushido hall, so this time I paid particular attention to the stairs while guiding. On the way to the Tamozawa Imperial Villa, the rain finally stopped, and I was glad that the guests' spirits lifted and we were able to finish the tour on a good note.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusTobu Nikko Station~Shinkyo Bridge220JPY
    Section 2BusNikko Tamozawa Imperial Villa Memorial Park~Shinkyo Bridge350JPY
    Total570JPY

    Hello! I’m Yoko.
    I live in Tochigi Prefecture about 40 years and currently based in Utsunomiya, city near Nikko.
    I’m a mother of two kids, and a beagle dog.
    Also I’ve lived in Tennessee for 3 years until 2020.
    I was always happy whenever introducing Japanese culture to local people while living in US.
    Now I’m so excited to introduce you various attractions here in Japan.
    I love traveling, nature, food, Kimono, tea ceremony, manga etc.
    I’m looking forward to showing my guests beautiful places and interesting things related to my neighbor area.
    Let’s explore and have fun with me!

    May 26, 2026
    Samuel_G
    Viator review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Informative, fun and well organized
    We had the best day with our…

    May 17, 2026
    E1320OQrobertg
    A fabulous day in Nikko!
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Excellent day with Yoko as our guide.…

    Mar 9, 2026
    claudiomC4921YK
    The bed guide for a really amazing place
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Yoko was an amazing…

    Dec 21, 2025
    Earhart_Adventures
    Insight in to Japanese feudal culture
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Full Day trip from Tokyo- our…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Sanjusangendo & Pontocho

    Kyoto in One Day: Sanjusangendo & Pontocho

    Tour Itinerary

    • 13:00 Meet at Hotel Six Senses Kyoto
    • 13:10 Itinerary explanation and a brief introduction about Kyoto
    • 13:30 Sanjusangendo
    • 14:45 Nijo Castle
    • 16:00 Daitoku-ji Temple, Hoshun-in (bonsai viewing)
    • 17:15 Shopping on Sanjo Street
    • 17:45 Pontocho
    • 18:00 Disband at Pontocho

    Title: What Is a Private Kyoto Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe and North America who had met while traveling abroad years earlier and had since traveled the world together. This was their first visit to Kyoto, Japan. Rather than simply listening to the topics I had prepared, they were the type to ask questions one after another, and their love of bonsai was remarkable. One question they asked was whether I was a Buddhist or a follower of Shinto. They did not seem very interested in the dry landscape (karesansui) gardens, but they were deeply impressed by the concept of wabi-sabi. What I found amusing was when they asked whether Japanese people, or I personally, liked the Emperor. When I said that the Emperor is highly respected by the people, but that I personally much prefer tempura to an emperor, they burst out laughing. They asked many questions out of genuine interest in Japan, including why Shinzo Abe had been struck down by an assassin's bullet, and the background behind the divided Diet following the recent House of Representatives election. By 6:00 there was still some time remaining, but since they were hungry and wanted to eat sushi, they asked me to take them there. I politely declined, and we parted ways in Pontocho.

    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…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 9:30 Meet at Hotel
    • 2. 10:00 Meiji Shrine
    • 3. 11:15 Shibuya
    • 4. 12:30 Lunch (Torimitsukuni Akihabara Akiba Trim branch)
    • 5. 13:15 Akihabara
    • 6. 14:15 Asakusa
    • 7. 15:30 Disband at Tokyo Skytree

    What Does a Private One-Day Tour of Tokyo Cover? A Licensed Guide's Report on Meiji Shrine, Shibuya, Akihabara, and Asakusa The guests were a group from North America. Some of the guests had visited Japan about ten years ago during a transit, but for others it was their first visit. They had arrived in Japan the previous day and planned to stay for about two weeks, visiting Kyoto and other places in addition to Tokyo. I guided them around Meiji Shrine, Shibuya, Akihabara, and Asakusa. They asked a wide range of questions, not only about the sightseeing spots but also about Japanese culture and daily life. They enjoyed each location while taking photos. Since they had already arranged tickets to visit Tokyo Skytree after the tour, I guided them to the entrance of the Skytree observation deck at the end. After explaining how to get back to their accommodation and helping them with the observation deck ticket process, we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinjuku~Harajuku146JPY
    Section 2TrainHarajuku~Shibuya146JPY
    Section 3TrainShibuya~Akihabara208JPY
    Section 4SubwaySuehirocho~Asakusa178JPY
    Section 5TrainAsakusa~Tokyo Skytree157JPY
    Total835JPY

    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!

    Jul 13, 2026
    529gregj
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Haru is an excellent guide in Tokyo
    Haru (Haruhiko…

    Jul 12, 2026
    Felice R
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Touring gardens in Tokyo with the perfect guide , Haru…

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

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

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 9:00 Meet at Hotel Shinjuku Kabukicho Tower
    • 2. 9:30 Meiji Jingu Shrine
    • 3. 11:00 Hamarikyu Gardens
    • 4. 12:00 Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 5. 13:00 Dismissal, Lunch at Sushisei

    Title: What Is a Private Tokyo Walking Tour Like? Meiji Shrine, Hamarikyu Gardens, and Sushi — A Licensed Guide's Report The guests, visiting Japan for the first time from Europe, were first guided to Meiji Shrine to introduce them to the world of Shinto. They were freshly moved to find such a forest and a shrine standing quietly in the very heart of the city. Passing through the north torii gate, we traveled from Yoyogi to Shiodome and visited Hamarikyu Gardens. There, they were again amazed to see an ancient-style house reconstructed among the cluster of high-rise buildings. It was here that a great discovery was made — the answer to the question, "Why do old and new coexist in Tokyo?" Through conversation with the guests, a fitting answer took shape, something that also resonated with me. It was a wonderful discovery. At the end, I took them to a sushi restaurant and helped them place their order before we parted ways. It seems they found it very delicious.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinjuku-sanchome~Meiji-jingumae180JPY
    Section 2TrainYoyogi~Shiodome220JPY
    Total400JPY

    Born and raised in Tokyo a half-century ago, I have lived in Tokyo all my life except for one year in the UK to study for a master’s course. I am a Tokyo Native with viewpoints based on broader local knowledge than anyone else. I have specialised in Japanese history, culture, and architecture since I was an architect.
    Also, I am a foodie emphasising Japanese traditional & healthy foods. I’ve been to many countries around the world, such as the US, Central America, Europe, and Asia. As such, I believe I can anticipate the needs of foreign tourists in Japan.

    Despite my experience as a guide for just two years, we can make the best out of our tour by travelling from your hotel to spots time-efficiently with my local knowledge, while accommodating your unexpected requests during the tour.
    My strong area includes Yanesen; Old Temples in a Quaint Village, Kamakura, Asakusa Sensoji, Meiji Shrine and Imperial Palace. All give you peace of mind.

    Oct 22, 2025
    I5562SWphilipk
    Great intro to Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kei was a genial and knowledgeable host, who…

    Oct 12, 2025
    Gary H
    Great tour of Tokyo!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We loved our tour! Our guide was…

    Oct 5, 2025
    C
    Cindy_S
    Had one day in Tokyo and…
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Had one day in Tokyo…

    Sep 15, 2025
    chrishN2970OC
    A highly enjoyable tour of Tokyo with knowledgeable local guide
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had…