Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo in One Day: Departure: Shinjuku-sanchome & Shibuya Station

    Tokyo in One Day: Departure: Shinjuku-sanchome & Shibuya Station

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:30 Meeting place: Tokyu Stay Shinjuku
    • 9:10 Departure: Shinjuku-sanchome Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line)
    • Akasaka-mitsuke Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 10:00 Arrive at Asakusa Station
    • Asakusa Senso-ji Temple
    • Asakusa Shrine
    • Nakamise Shopping Street
    • 11:00 Depart Asakusa Station
    • 　　　(Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Ueno Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • 11:30 Arrive at Tsukiji Station
    • Tsukiji Tsukiji Uogashi
    • Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 12:30 Depart Tsukiji Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • Hibiya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • 13:00 Arrive at Otemachi Station
    • Tokyo Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • Nijubashi Bridge
    • 14:30 Depart Nijubashimae Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • 15:00 Arrive at Meiji-jingumae Station
    • Harajuku Meiji Shrine
    • Takeshita Street
    • Cat Street
    • 16:00 Depart Harajuku Station
    • (JR Yamanote Line)
    • 16:15 Arrive at Shibuya Station
    • Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • Hachiko Statue
    • 16:45 Depart Shibuya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line)
    • 17:00 Arrive at Shinjuku-sanchome Station
    • 17:00 Dismissal: Shinjuku-sanchome Station

    Title: What Can You See on a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Tsukiji, the Imperial Palace, Harajuku, and Shibuya The guests were visitors from North America. It was their first visit to Japan. They had arrived at Narita Airport the previous evening and taken a limousine bus to their hotel. The guests had studied Japan quite thoroughly beforehand. They planned to stay in Japan for two weeks, spending several days in Tokyo before traveling to Kyoto, Osaka, and Hiroshima, then returning to Tokyo before heading home. Their request was: "Even if our time at each destination is short, we would like to visit as many sightseeing spots as possible." The tour took place in weather that was a little chilly in the morning and hot during the day. We took the Marunouchi Line and Ginza Line to Asakusa. From Kaminarimon Gate, we walked through the Nakamise shopping street to the main hall. The guests were surprised by the enormous crowds. I explained the history of Sensoji Temple and the transition from Edo to Tokyo, the five-story pagoda, and the difference between Buddhism and Shinto. There were questions such as "Do all Japanese people believe in Buddhism?" and "What kind of teaching is Buddhism?" We moved on to Tsukiji, where we strolled leisurely through the Tsukiji fish market and the Tsukiji outer market. I explained the history of Tsukiji market and the difference between Tsukiji and Toyosu markets. There was a question, "Is it always this crowded?" The guests purchased some bean snacks. We moved on to the Imperial Palace. I explained about the Edo period and the Meiji Restoration, why Edo Castle became the Imperial Palace, and the current challenges facing the Imperial Family. There were also questions such as "Does the Emperor really live inside here?" and "Does the Emperor hold any political authority?" We moved on to Harajuku. At Meiji Shrine, I explained the difference between Shinto and Buddhism, and also spoke about Emperor Meiji. The guests remarked, "It is wonderful that there is such a green place in the center of the city." We moved on to Shibuya, where the guests experienced the scramble crossing and took a commemorative photo in front of the Hachiko statue. There was also a question, "Why are there so many people here? Are they mostly Japanese, or are they travelers?" The guests also commented, "Everyone is so polite," "The city is clean, there is no litter on the ground," "There are no trash cans on the streets," "There are no homeless people to be seen," and "The public restrooms are clean and pleasant." I saw the guests off at Shinjuku-Sanchome Station, and we parted ways.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShinjuku-sanchome Station～Asakusa Station252JPY
    Section 2SubwayAsakusa Station～Tsukiji Station209JPY
    Section 3SubwayTsukiji Station～Otemachi Station178JPY
    Section 4SubwayNijubashimae Station～Meiji-jingumae Station209JPY
    Section 5TrainHarajuku Station～Shibuya Station146JPY
    Section 6SubwayShibuya Station～Shinjuku-sanchome Station178JPY
    Total1,172JPY

    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.

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    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…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Kinkaku-ji & Nijo Castle

    Kyoto in One Day: Kinkaku-ji & Nijo Castle

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Hotel Meet (Hotel)
    • 9:00-9:40 Travel (Hankyu Railway; Kawaramachi Shijo → Arashiyama)
    • 9:40-10:40 Arashiyama Stroll & Sightseeing (Togetsukyo Bridge, Tenryu-ji Sogenchi Garden, Bamboo Grove, Kimono Forest)
    • 10:40-11:30 Travel (Keifuku Railway; Arashiyama → Kitano-Hakubaicho, City Bus; Kitano-Hakubaicho → Kinkaku-ji Michi)
    • 11:30-12:20 Kinkaku-ji Visit
    • 12:20-13:10 Lunch (BR Cafe)
    • 13:10-13:40 Travel (City Bus; Kinkaku-ji Michi → Nijo-jo Mae)
    • 13:40-15:00 Nijo Castle Visit (Ninomaru Palace, Honmaru Palace)
    • 15:00 Farewell at Nijo Castle

    Title: What's a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour of Arashiyama, Kinkaku-ji, and Nijo Castle Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. I took them to Arashiyama (the Togetsukyo Bridge, the Sogenchi Garden, the bamboo grove, and the Kimono Forest), Kinkaku-ji, and Nijo Castle, where in addition to the Ninomaru Palace we also visited the Honmaru Palace, which became open to visitors from September. It was everyone's first time in Japan, and they told me they had arrived in Kyoto from Tokyo the previous evening. Among the group, one especially liked the Sogenchi Garden, another particularly enjoyed the Honmaru Palace, and another was especially fond of Kinkaku-ji. The Honmaru Palace reopened to the public from September, and I think it is highly recommended for those interested in Japanese architecture, as it allows a comparison between the castle architecture of the Ninomaru Palace and the imperial residence architecture of the Honmaru Palace. (The need for advance reservation is a slight inconvenience, though.) I was grateful that everyone listened carefully to my explanations. There were no particular problems, and I believe the guests enjoyed the tour.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShijo Kawaramachi～Arashiyama240JPY
    Section 2TrainArashiyama～Kitano-Hakubaicho250JPY
    Section 3BusKitano-Hakubaicho～Kinkaku-ji Michi230JPY
    Section 4BusKinkaku-ji Michi～Nijo-jo Mae230JPY
    Total950JPY

    Tour Report by Michi

    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 !

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    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.…

    Jul 13, 2026
    Beth_D
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Excellent Tour and Guide
    Michi was an excellent tour guide! He…

  • Osaka in Half a Day: Osaka Castle & Dotonbori

    Osaka in Half a Day: Osaka Castle & Dotonbori

    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:30 Meet at JR Shin-Osaka Station
    • 11:15 @ Osaka Castle (exterior only)
    • 12:45 @ Shinsaibashi (Book-off/2nd Street)
    • 13:45 @ Dotonbori (including light meal b)
    • 14:30 Disband @ Dotonbori

    Title: What Is a Private Shopping-Focused Day Tour of Osaka Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors to Japan, and although the meeting point and time changed several times right up until the last moment, we were able to meet without any problems and start the tour. Some of the guests seemed less interested in the sightseeing spots and appeared to be mainly focused on shopping. They enjoyed a lot of shopping at a secondhand bookstore in Shinsaibashi, a used clothing store, and a drugstore. Since one of the guests was hungry, I guided them to an okonomiyaki restaurant that I recommended, and they were very satisfied. The guests were very pleasant to be with, sharing many enjoyable stories and even showing me family photos, so we spent a lovely time together.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShin-Osaka～Morinomiya190JPY
    Section 2SubwayMorinomiya～Shinsaibashi240JPY
    Total430JPY

    Tour Report by Yama

    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

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    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…

    Jul 13, 2026
    Diane_B
    Viator review: Kobe Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Our tour guide Yama was amazing!!
    Our tour guide…

    Jul 4, 2026
    Navigator661725
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A wonderful time!
    We absolutely loved this tour. Yama was attentive, was…

  • Nara in One Day: Ukigumo-enchi & back at Kintetsu-Nara Station

    Nara in One Day: Ukigumo-enchi & back at Kintetsu-Nara Station

    Nara Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:02 Meet at the East ticket gate of Kintetsu-Nara Station (Start of Tour)
    • bus
    • 9:20-50 Ukigumo-enchi
    • walk 5 minutes
    • 10:00-50 Kasuga-taisha Shrine
    • walk 5 minutes
    • 11:00-20 at the foot of Wakakusayama Hill
    • walk 5 minutes
    • 11:30-12:00 Todaiji's Nigatsudo Hall
    • walk 5 minutes
    • 12:10 Todaiji's Shoro Bell Tower
    • walk 5 minutes
    • 12:30-13:00 Todaiji's Great Buddha Hall
    • walk 5 minutes
    • 13:10 Todaiji's Nandaimon (South Great Gate)
    • walk 5 minutes
    • 13:20-40 Lunch (Kasuga Chaya)
    • walk 5 minutes
    • 14:00-20 Yoshikien Garden
    • walk 10 minutes
    • 14:40-50 Kofukuji Temple
    • 15:00 Nakatanido A shop with irregular holidays. It happened to be closed.
    • 15:20 back at Kintetsu-Nara Station

    What Is a Full-Day Private Walking Tour of Nara Park Like? A Licensed Guide's Report A message came through a messaging app saying the group had caught an earlier train, so I hurried to the meeting point at Kintetsu Nara Station. We ended up starting 30 minutes ahead of schedule. Since rain was expected from the afternoon, an early start was very welcome. I had been a little worried about a full day of walking around the Nara Park area, but that concern turned out to be unfounded, and the group handled it with no trouble at all. The guests were visiting from North America. They kindly shared a lot about Asian communities in their home region. It was a pleasure to hear their personal stories, and I wished I could have heard even more of their personal history!

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKintetsu-Nara Station～Todaiji Great Buddha Hall / Kasuga-taisha Shrine front250JPY
    Total250JPY

    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…

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Itsukushima Shrine & Peace Memorial Museum

    Hiroshima in One Day: Itsukushima Shrine & Peace Memorial Museum

    Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:30 Meet at Hiroshima Station
    • 11:40 Itsukushima Shrine
    • 12:40 Omote-sando street
    • 13:20 Lunch @Hanako
    • 15:20Peace Memorial Park
    • 16:20 Peace Memorial Museum
    • 17:30 End of the tour at Peace Museum

    Can You Do a Private Day Trip to Miyajima and Hiroshima? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Oceania. We first went to Miyajima to coincide with high tide. They were deeply moved to see the water level rising. On Miyajima, the lines everywhere were so long that we could not eat anything. One of the guests wanted to try okonomiyaki that they had seen on a video-sharing platform, so although we sat at separate tables, we completed the mission. Inside the museum, there was a long line stretching from the East Building to the Main Building. According to the guard, it had been like this since early afternoon, as there was no admission limit and many groups (school trips, both domestic and international visitors) were present. The line finally cleared after 5:00 p.m. Although I have been involved with the museum for more than 20 years, this was the first time I had experienced anything like this. Since the guests said they would have dinner before returning, we ended the tour on the main shopping street.

    Click here for more details: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHiroshima～Miyajimaguchi420JPY
    Section 2TrainMiyajimaguchi～Yokogawa330JPY
    Section 3TrainYokogawa～Genbaku Dome-mae220JPY
    Total970JPY

    Tour Report by Michi

    Hi. I’m Michi. I’m a national licensed tour guide in English.
    I want to introduce many faces and charms of Japan and make your stay in Japan more fascinating and satisfying.

    I was born and raised in Hiroshima. My first tour in English was as a volunteer guide for the visitors to my school when I was a junior high school student. It gave me a great opportunity to study about the atomic bomb dropped on Hiroshima.
    I spent my life in Hiroshima except for 6 years; 1 year in the UK as a student and 5 years working in Singapore and Malaysia. During this period I enjoyed meeting and talking with people from different cultural backgrounds.
    These experiences encouraged me to be a licensed tour guide.

    In Hiroshima, there are two famous World Heritage Sites, the Atomic Bomb Dome in the Hiroshima Peace Memorial & Itsukushima Shrine in Miyajima.
    I have experienced many tours of the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum & Park since I was a junior high school student. I would like to introduce you to the a-bomb legacies that are still existing in the city and the stories under the mushroom cloud.
    I also would like to share time with you on a historic island, Miyajima. There is one of the most famous Shinto shrines, the Itsukushima Shrine. We can share an enjoyable time by exploring a sacred atmosphere, tradition, nature, food, etc.

    I am also an official ‘A-bomb legacy successor’ designated by the City of Hiroshima. An A-bomb Legacy Successor is a memory keeper of the A-bomb survivors. To ensure that the A-bomb survivors’ experiences and desires for peace are faithfully inherited and shared with as many people as possible, the City has started a three-year training program for official ‘A-bomb Legacy Successors. ‘

    Let me support your stay in Japan and I look forward to showing you the best of Japan!
    Hope to see you soon!

    Request Booking

    Jan 2, 2025
    georgeweller
    Excellent tour by a very knowledgeable guide
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Michi-San was an…

    Nov 8, 2024
    Andrew M
    Awesome experience! Michi was the best guide!
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Awesome…

    Nov 8, 2024
    Andrew_M
    Awesome day! Michi was an amazing guide!
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Awesome day!…

    Sep 16, 2024
    alexandermM7944BB
    Day tour with Michi
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Michi, our guide, was amazing!…

  • Kyoto: Nijojo Castle & Kyoto Sta

    Kyoto: Nijojo Castle & Kyoto Sta

    Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 pick you up in the lobby of your hotel
    • "Hotel Granvia Kyoto"
    • (take taxi for about 2,000JPY)
    • 10:30 Nijojo Castle
    • 11:30 (take taxi for about 2,000JPY)
    • 10:50 Kinkakuji Temple (Golden Pavilion)
    • 11:50 (take taxi)
    • 12:20 Arashiyama Bamboo Forest
    • 12:50 Tenryuji Temple
    • 13:20 (Lunch)
    • 14:10 (take taxi)
    • 14:50 Nishiki Food Market
    • 15:40 (take train)
    • 16:00 Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 17:00 (take train)
    • 17:20 Kyoto Sta.

    What Is a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report 1. The guests were visitors from North America, experiencing Kyoto for the first time. Since walking was somewhat difficult for one of them, we traveled almost entirely by taxi. 2. The guests did not use a credit card and paid for everything in cash. 3. As the guests said they liked noodles, they enjoyed hot tempura udon and meat soba for lunch. 4. I was able to have an enjoyable conversation with the guests. 5. Since it began to drizzle in the evening, we did not walk through Gion but instead I limited the visit to an explanation of geiko and maiko. 6. The guests really liked walking through Nishiki Market and said they would come back to buy souvenirs on their final day, so at the end I explained how to get there from their hotel before concluding the tour.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainGion-Shijo～Fushimi Inari220JPY
    Section 2TrainInari～Kyoto150JPY
    Total370JPY

    Tour Report by HIDEYOSHI

    Hello, I’m HIDEo YOSHIda. Please call me HIDEYOSHI, the same name as a famous shogun who unified Japan for the first time in 1590.
    I was born in Kobe, worked in Osaka for nearly 40 years. I would like to introduce you Kansai region, including Kyoto, Osaka, Kobe, Nara and Wakayama.
    In Kyoto, I can guide you Nijojo Castle, Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, Kinkakuji Tempe (Golden Pavilion), Gion area, and Fushimi Inari Taisha.
    In Osaka, I’ll show you Osaka Castle, Shinsekai, Dotonbori, and Umeda Sky biilding. We have locall foods such as Kushikatau, Okonomiyaki and Takoyaki.
    In Kobe, I’ll take you to former foreign residential area, Sannomiya Shopping Street, Chinese Market, and Arima Onsen.
    In Nara, I’ll guide you Todaiji Temple, Kofukuji Temple, Kasuga Taisha, and Yakushiji Temple.
    In Wakayama, I take you to Koyasan, the center of Esoteric Buddhism.
    I enjoy guiding foreign tourists.
    I can show you Japanese history, especially samurai period, and Shinto and Buddhism.
    I’ve been looking forward to guiding you !!

    Request Booking

    Jun 1, 2026
    Stephan_F
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great overview of the…
    Great overview of the highlights of Kyoto with…

    May 28, 2025
    terrym866
    Kyoto guided tour was as promised. Very knowledgeable guide and driver .
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Full Day Tour from Kobe with…

    Oct 17, 2024
    katiya2017
    Walking visit in Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Full-Day Private Tour (Osaka departure) with Government-Licensed Guide
    We booked a full day walking…

    Sep 29, 2024
    Roy_M
    Excellent tour of Kyoto
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a very good private tour with…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1) 9:00 Meet @ the b Ginza (12-13 Ginza 8-chome, Chuo-ku, Tokyo)
    • 2) 9:30 Tsukiji Market
    • 3) 11:00 Hamarikyu Gardens
    • 4) 12:40 Odaiba
    • 5) 13:10 Lunch @ Shabu-shabu Dining Roku (Aqua City Odaiba 6F, 7-1 Daiba 1-chome, Minato-ku, Tokyo)
    • 6) 14:40 Sendagi/Yanaka Shopping Street
    • 7) 15:30 Disband @ JR Yamanote Line Uguisudani Station Platform 4

    Title: What Can You See on a Private Full-Day Tokyo Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tsukiji, Hamarikyu, Odaiba, and Yanaka The guests were a group visiting from Oceania. In advance, they had requested visits to Asakusa, Tsukiji, Odaiba, and Rikugien. However, because the large pond at Rikugien was undergoing shoreline repair work and the scenery was judged to be less attractive than usual, I recommended Hamarikyu Gardens as an alternative, and the guests agreed. Both had already purchased Suica cards. I learned that food was a strong interest for the family. At Tsukiji, I introduced the shops and foods that came into view one after another. I had expected the guests to sample a great deal, but they limited themselves to tasting dashi and various rice crackers. Walking slowly, we finished touring the main area of the market about 30 minutes over schedule. Next, I guided the group to Hamarikyu Gardens. The guests were not familiar with the concept of the "shogun," so I included explanations of basic Japanese historical background, earthquakes (they were not aware of the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake either), and the political system as we walked. The cosmos flowers in the flower field were beautiful, and we strolled through here at a leisurely pace as well. When I asked why they had wished to visit Odaiba, they said there was no particular purpose. They planned to visit Nikko the next day but had no fixed plans, so on the way to Daiba Station I introduced recommended spots in Nikko both verbally and by email. At Odaiba, we took photos in front of the Statue of Liberty replica, then I guided the group to the 6th floor of Aqua City Odaiba for lunch. The guests chose a shabu-shabu restaurant (which served only course meals even at lunch). After assisting with the ingredients, how to eat shabu-shabu, and placing the order, I waited outside with the guests' consent. When we met again, they told me their first-ever shabu-shabu had been delicious. For the final stop, I let the guests choose between Asakusa and Yanaka (I gave a brief explanation of Yanaka, including that it involved about 30 minutes of walking), and they chose Yanaka. From the middle of the tour, moving through the subway (especially climbing stairs) appeared difficult for one of the guests, so I made every effort to use escalators and elevators. When I asked at JR Nippori Station about their plans after the tour, they said they wanted to go to the Shibuya crossing. Since verbal directions alone felt uncertain, I accompanied them from JR Nippori Station as well, explained the route to the Shibuya crossing with the help of email, and we parted at the platform inside JR Uguisudani Station. The guests had also purchased a JR Pass, and I hope they will leisurely enjoy the golden route including Hakone, Takayama, Shirakawa-go, Kanazawa, and Hiroshima.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayTokyo Metro Hibiya Line Higashi-Ginza Station～Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line Tsukiji Station180JPY
    Section 2SubwayToei Subway Oedo Line Tsukijishijo Station～Toei Subway Oedo Line Shiodome Station180JPY
    Section 3TrainYurikamome Line Shiodome Station～Yurikamome Line Daiba Station330JPY
    Section 4TrainYurikamome Line Daiba Station～Yurikamome Line Shimbashi Station330JPY
    Section 5TrainTokyo Metro Ginza Line Shimbashi Station～Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line Sendagi Station210JPY
    Section 6TrainJR Yamanote Line Nippori Station～JR Yamanote Line Uguisudani Station150JPY
    Total1,380JPY

    Tour Report by Tachi

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

    Request Booking

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

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

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

    May 5, 2026
    Gary33556
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Wonderful tour of the highlights of Tokyo
    Tachi was our guide. What…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1) 10:45 Meet up @ Hotel (2-2-1 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo)
    • 2) 11:20 Shibuya Crossing
    • 3) 11:50 Meiji Shrine
    • 4) 12:30 Harajuku Takeshita Street
    • 5) 13:10 Imperial Palace Main Gate Nijubashi Bridge
    • 6) 13:40 Nezu Shrine
    • 7) 14:20 Yanaka <Hebi Path → Yomise Street → Yanaka Shopping Street>
    • 8) 15:20 Kappabashi Kitchenware Street
    • 9) 15:40 Asakusa <Sensoji Temple・Nakamise Street>
    • 10) 17:00 Dismissal @ Tokyo Tower (4-2-8 Shibakoen, Minato-ku, Tokyo)

    What Is a Full-Day Private Walking Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide led a full-day private walking tour of Tokyo for guests visiting from Europe. In advance, the guests had requested a 5:30 p.m. entry reservation at Tokyo Tower and asked to end the tour there. The hotel meet-up happened 15 minutes ahead of schedule, and I smoothly guided them on purchasing a metro pass. They had chosen to visit Japan outside the hot and humid season. We moved briskly from Shibuya Crossing to Meiji Shrine. Since the guests enjoy jogging regularly, they were light on their feet, so we also added an unplanned visit to Takeshita Street in Harajuku. I had explained beforehand that at the Imperial Palace I could only show them the Nijubashi Bridge and the main gate, but at the guests' request we visited anyway. They were delighted by the contrast between the nearby high-rise buildings and the scenery around the main gate of the Imperial Palace. They shared how sad they had felt at the passing of the late British queen, and seemed to sense some common ground with the Japanese Imperial Family. While walking, various questions came up about topics such as women's social standing, holidays, working hours, and the division of household chores and childcare, and I answered as best I could and exchanged opinions on subjects such as crime rates, drinking and smoking in public, and burial customs. After the Imperial Palace, we made an unplanned visit to Nezu Shrine and Yanaka. Nezu Shrine seemed to be the guests' favorite. Since we had walked briskly without breaks, we also visited Kappabashi Kitchen Town before heading to the main hall of Senso-ji Temple. Although most of it is a postwar reconstruction, the guests admired the exterior and the ceiling paintings of the main hall. Near Kaminarimon Gate on Nakamise Street, they bought a few souvenirs, and then we went to Tokyo Tower. They mentioned they wanted to go to the Hard Rock Cafe in Roppongi after visiting the tower, as collecting shot glasses from various places is a hobby of theirs, so we checked the route together on our maps and parted ways. They said that the next day they would visit the fifth station of Mount Fuji and Hakone, and after that travel by cruise ship to Sasebo, Osaka, Kanazawa, Akita (where I recommended Kakunodate), Hakodate, and more. Kind and full of humor, the guests are sure to be welcomed everywhere they go.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassToei Subway Oedo Line Tochomae Station～Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line Shibuya Station900JPY
    Section 2Free PassTokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line Shibuya Station～Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line Kitasando Station0JPY
    Section 3Free PassTokyo Metro Chiyoda Line Meiji-jingumae Station～Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line Nijubashimae Station0JPY
    Section 4Free PassTokyo Metro Chiyoda Line Nijubashimae Station～Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line Nezu Station0JPY
    Section 5TrainJR Yamanote Line Nippori Station～JR Yamanote Line Ueno Station150JPY
    Section 6Free PassTokyo Metro Ginza Line Ueno Station～Tokyo Metro Ginza Line Tawaramachi Station0JPY
    Section 7Free PassToei Subway Asakusa Line Asakusa Station～Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line Kamiyacho Station0JPY
    Total1,050JPY

    Tour Report by Tachi

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

    Request Booking

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

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

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

    May 5, 2026
    Gary33556
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Wonderful tour of the highlights of Tokyo
    Tachi was our guide. What…

  • Tochigi in One Day: JR Nikko Station & Shinkyo Bridge

    Tochigi in One Day: JR Nikko Station & Shinkyo Bridge

    Nikko Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:45- JR Nikko Station
    • 10:40- Ryuzu Falls
    • 11:10- Utagahama Parking
    • 11:33- Kegon Falls
    • 12:50- Lunch @ Sannai Shokudo
    • 13:40- Nikko Toshogu Shrine
    • 15:05- Rinnoji Temple Sanbutsudo
    • 15:30- Shinkyo Bridge
    • 16:00- JR Nikko Station

    Title: What's a Private Day Tour of Nikko Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from Oceania. We used a taxi, and thankfully there was no traffic congestion I had worried about, so the tour proceeded smoothly. Since the guests did not seem to spend a great deal of time at each site, the tour moved along at a steady pace. Overall the guests seemed to have a fairly quiet reaction to my explanations, so I was a little unsure whether they were enjoying themselves, but the conversation picked up a bit when we found common ground. On the way back from the Shinkyo Bridge, the guests purchased some sweets and snacks I had recommended, and we parted ways right on schedule.

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

    Tour Report by YOKO

    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!

    Request Booking

    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…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & eyoko

    Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & eyoko

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at New Otani Garden Tower
    • 10:20 Meiji Shrine > Takeshita Street
    • 11:50 East Gardens of the Imperial Palace
    • 13:20 Lunch @ Irori-an Kiraku Soba, Ueno
    • 13:55 Asakusa (Skytree photos)
    • 15:15 Ameyoko
    • 16:00 Disband at New Otani Garden Tower

    Title: What's a Private One-Day Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Meiji Shrine, the Imperial Palace, and Asakusa The guests had a 72-hour subway pass, so we were able to get around the sightseeing spots easily. The weather was excellent, and the guests were very pleased. As they were from Europe, I explained the relationship between Japan and their region. They walked quickly, so we had plenty of time and I was able to give detailed explanations at places such as Meiji Shrine, the former Edo Castle, and Sensoji Temple and Asakusa Shrine. I believe the guests understood well. Since Tsukiji was closed on Sunday, I guided them to Ameyoko. It had a chaotic atmosphere, and I reflected that it was a bit different from Tsukiji. There were a great many foreign tourists at the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace and in Asakusa, and I was a little surprised by the increase in inbound visitors. The guests were in high spirits throughout, and at the end they gave me a tip before we parted.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainAkasaka-mitsuke～Meiji-jingumae600JPY
    Section 2TrainMeiji-jingumae～Takebashi0JPY
    Section 3TrainOtemachi～Ueno0JPY
    Section 4TrainUeno～Asakusa0JPY
    Section 5TrainAsakusa～Ueno-hirokoji0JPY
    Section 6TrainUeno-hirokoji～Akasaka-mitsuke0JPY
    Total600JPY

    Tour Report by Koba

    My name is Eiji Kobayashi (Mr.), and I will be your guide during your stay in Tokyo.
    Please call me Koba.
    Allow me to introduce myself. I am a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter of Japan and an expert in Japanese history and culture, and also in nursing and health. I usually work as a Public Health Nurse (PHN) at a Public Health Center in Tokyo, and I hold a Registered Nurse (RN) license. Additionally, I have a Ph.D. in medical science.
    Born in 1957 and raised in Tokyo, I have worked for 33 years mainly in the research and development area for some pharmaceutical companies. Then, I changed my career to nursing and entered a university to obtain a PHN and RN license. I took the Licensed Guide for preparation for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and volunteered in the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2021.

    Request Booking

    Jul 21, 2026
    scottsD8777AR
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Great Touring Tokyo
    Koba is an excellent tour guide. We greatly…

    Jul 9, 2026
    Quest36994121691
    First visit to Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    This was our first visit…

    Jul 8, 2026
    Χρονης Π
    A beautiful tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    It was a perfect experience…

    Jul 5, 2026
    I3699SBjonathanw
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    6hr Tokyo guide great experience
    Koba was so nice to my family…