Category: Uncategorized

  • Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 0900 Meet at Hotel Vischio Kyoto by Granvia
    • 0940 Arashiyama ~ Tenryu-ji ~ Bamboo Grove
    • 1100 Ninna-ji
    • 1200 Kinkaku-ji
    • 1330 Disband at Kyoto Station

    What Is a 4-Hour Private Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe. They showed great interest in Japanese history and asked many questions, particularly in-depth questions about the Emperor and the imperial family. They were very interested in the imperial anecdotes at Tenryu-ji and Ninna-ji temples. One of the guests seemed to enjoy photography, and was very pleased when I guided them to photo spots. Since it was a 4-hour tour, they planned to explore on their own in the afternoon, so I showed them how to get to Sanjusangen-do and To-ji temples.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKyoto~Saga-Arashiyama240JPY
    Section 2TrainArashiyama~Omuro Ninna-ji250JPY
    Section 3BusNinna-ji~Kinkaku-ji-mae230JPY
    Section 4BusKinkaku-ji-michi~Kyoto Station-mae230JPY
    Total950JPY

    Select a guide: enter the WordPress Guide post ID or Guide ID in the block settings.

    Oct 10, 2025
    alijohn48
    Just what we were looking for
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Tomy was…

    Aug 8, 2025
    Katherine_G
    Fantastic day touring Kyoto with private tour guide & driver!
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max…

    Jul 22, 2025
    98patrickn
    early morning tour of Kyoto with guide Tomy
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We did an early…

    Jul 20, 2025
    Mark_S
    Great day in Kyoto
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    We had a great…

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine & Nijo Castle

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine & Nijo Castle

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:30 Hotel Nikko Princesses Kyoto
    • 10:50-12:00 Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 12:30-13:00 Lunch at Doutor Sanjo Station
    • 13:20-14:20 Nijo Castle
    • 14:30 Disband at Nijojo-mae bus stop

    What Can You See on a Private Kyoto Tour of Fushimi Inari and Nijo Castle? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. When we first discussed the plan, they intended to visit Fushimi Inari Taisha, the Higashiyama district, and Kiyomizu-dera. However, when I confirmed again, they told me that watching the TV series "Shogun" had sparked a strong interest in Japanese history, so we changed the itinerary on short notice and decided to visit Fushimi Inari Taisha and Nijo Castle instead. They certainly enjoyed Fushimi Inari Taisha, but I felt they were especially satisfied with Nijo Castle, where I was able to share many stories related to "Shogun" and where they could also enjoy the beautiful Japanese garden.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShijo~Kyoto220JPY
    Section 2TrainKyoto~Inari150JPY
    Section 3TrainFushimi Inari~Sanjo220JPY
    Section 4SubwayKeihan Sanjo~Nijojo-mae220JPY
    Total810JPY

    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…

  • Tokyo: Toyosu Market Entrance & Shibuya Station

    Tokyo: Toyosu Market Entrance & Shibuya Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 5:00 Meeting place: Toyosu Wholesale Market – Main Entrance-South
    • 5:00 Toyosu Market Entrance
    • Toyosu Seafood Wholesale Market Building
    • (Tuna Auction Viewing)
    • Seafood Intermediate Wholesale Market Building
    • "Sushi Dai" (Reservation Only)
    • 6:30 Depart Shijo-mae Station
    • (Yurikamome)
    • Toyosu Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Yurakucho Line)
    • Tsukishima Station
    • (Toei Subway Oedo Line)
    • 7:00 Arrive Tsukiji Market Station
    • Tsukiji Tsukiji Outer Market
    • Break: Yonemoto Coffee
    • 8:00 Depart Tsukiji Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • Ginza Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 8:30 Arrive Shibuya Station
    • 8:30 Disband: Shibuya Station

    What Is a Private Early-Morning Toyosu Fish Market and Tsukiji Tour in Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America, both visiting Japan for the first time. One of the guests runs a car rental business, mainly dealing with Japanese vehicles. They had arrived at Narita Airport two days earlier and traveled to their hotel by Narita Express (Hotel). The day before yesterday, they strolled around Asakusa and Shibuya, and in the evening they enjoyed sushi. Yesterday they went to Nagoya. After visiting the Toyota museum, they said, "The hitsumabushi we had for lunch was delicious." They would be staying in Japan for a total of 16 days. They planned to spend four days in Tokyo, then visit Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, and Naoshima, before returning to Tokyo and heading home. At 5:00 am, we met on schedule at the south side of the main gate of Toyosu Market. First, we went to the seafood wholesale building and watched the tuna auction with great interest. I explained "the history of Tokyo's fish markets," "the difference between Toyosu Market and the Tsukiji Outer Market," and "the difference between the wholesale market and the intermediate wholesale market." There were questions and explanations about "Where is tuna caught?", "Is all the tuna from around the world sent to Toyosu Market?", "When is the market closed?", and "What kinds of tuna are there and which type is the most expensive?" There was also a question: "How much does a single tuna cost?" From the second-floor public viewing corridor, the "fresh tuna" auction below could not be seen well. The guests commented, "It's a shame we couldn't watch from the special viewing deck." After this, we visited the intermediate wholesale building. There were questions such as "What kind of people come here to buy?" and "I'd really like to go inside and look around — is that not allowed?" They said, "It's been a hot topic on social media, so I'd really like to go to 'Sushi Dai.'" Unfortunately, a reservation for that afternoon could not be secured, and after confirming the reservation, they said, "We'll come back in the afternoon to eat." We took the Yurikamome and the subway, transferring to reach the Tsukiji Outer Market, and slowly made a full loop around the area. We looked around at various shops, and they bought and sampled "ice cream," "onigiri," and "mochi." They commented, "The whole town is clean. There's no litter on the ground." They also commented and asked, "I don't see any homeless people," and "There are no trash cans out on the streets. Why is that?" Since they said, "I'd like to go to Shibuya before heading to 'Sushi Dai,'" I saw them off to Shibuya Station, and we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherShijo-mae Station~Toyosu Station189JPY
    Section 2SubwayToyosu Station~Tsukishima Station178JPY
    Section 3SubwayTsukishima Station~Shijo-mae Station178JPY
    Section 4SubwayTsukiji Station~Shibuya Station209JPY
    Total754JPY

    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.

    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…

  • Tokyo: Shibuya Cellulian Tower & Shinjuku Omoide Yoko cho

    Tokyo: Shibuya Cellulian Tower & Shinjuku Omoide Yoko cho

    Tour Itinerary

    • Waiting for the guest as designated time at Tokyu Stay Shibuya.
    • Not showed up, called JGA, moved to Cerulean Tower by taxi as was instructed.
    • 09:25 Shibuya Cellulian Tower
    • 10:00 Meiji Shrine
    • 11:00 Imperial Palace
    • 12:00 Tokyo Station
    • 12:30 International Forum Building
    • 13:30 Ginza
    • 14:00 Lunch
    • 14:25 Shinjuku Omoide Yoko cho
    • 15:07 Back to Shibuya Cerulean Tower

    I'm sorry, but there is no Japanese tour report to anonymize and translate here. The text you provided is already in English and appears to be a list of guest comments or conversation fragments, not a Japanese tour report with the specified fields (title, tour report body, tour route, guide transportation costs). Could you please provide the Japanese tour report you would like me to process?

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShibuya-Harajuku @150 MeijiJingu Mae-Otemachi. @210 Ginza-Shinjuku @210 Shinjuku-Shibuya @170~taxi1,340JPY
    Total1,340JPY

    Hello, welcome to Japan you all.

    I’m a resident of Ebina, Kanagawa, and am a national government licensed guide and interpreter.
    I enjoy showing travelers both the new and old of central Honshu, primarily Tokyo and Kanagawa, ranging from Meiji Shrine, Edo Castle, Tsukiji Outer Market, Ueno, Asakusa, Ginza, Ginza Sky Farmstead, Shibuya Zebra Crossings, Yokohama, Kamakura, to Hakone, not to mention Mt. Fuji, and sharing views with my guests on Japanese homes and their surroundings, Japan’s labor productivity and labor market, among others.

    I also enjoy introducing travelers to Japanese culture through home visits with Japanese families, touring Zen temples, and explaining the intricacies of Japanese culture.

    I am happy to arrange personalized tours to other places of your interest.
    I am making the most of my long experience as a foreign language education service, escorting VIPs at the Sony showroom in Ginza, Tokyo.
    I also offer services to help families and individuals relocating to Japan with immigration VISA applications.

    My hobbies are movies, strolling along the river in my neighborhood and am a novice at la lingua Italiano.
    Let’s enjoy touring together, shall we?

    Jul 16, 2026
    135ulrikh
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Private guide – a very good experience
    We spent a half…

    Jun 21, 2026
    CJW324
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Guided Tour & Tablet Guided Origami Experience
    Unforgettable day in Tokyo with Hideaki — incredible with…

    May 20, 2026
    olgalA154QQ
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great experience with an excellent guide
    Great experience! Our guide WADA Hideaki…

    Apr 19, 2026
    Sightseer57474900023
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Hideaki’s perfect first day in Tokyo!
    Hideaki was an incredible guide and…

  • Tokyo: Toyosu Market Seafood Building & Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple

    Tokyo: Toyosu Market Seafood Building & Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple

    Tour Itinerary

    • 5:00 Meet up @ Hotel Ginza 6-chome
    • 5:15 Toyosu Market Seafood Building
    • 6:20 Toyosu Market Intermediate Wholesaler Building
    • 6:50 Tsukiji Outer Market (Fish Market)
    • 7:15 Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple
    • 8:00 Disband @ Itadori Annex

    Title: What's a Private Tsukiji Market and Toyosu Morning Tour Like in Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. One of them was returning to Japan after more than 20 years, while the other was visiting Japan for the first time. Initially they had hoped to enter the lottery for a guided tour of Toyosu Market, but I explained that a guided tour starting at 17:45 would not allow them to see the tuna being appraised by expert buyers before the auction, and that the volunteer guides also had limited knowledge and English ability, so it would be more worthwhile for them to hear my explanation instead, which they understood and agreed to. I explained in particular the significance of the role of the expert tuna appraisers. At the Tsukiji Outer Market, I guided them through the fish market area as usual, though it was unfortunate that no tuna cutting was being done at Kitani that day. On the other hand, at Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple, a service was in progress, and the guests were surprised and delighted to hear a chorus of "Namu Amida Butsu" chanted by around 15 monks. As they wanted to have sushi for breakfast, I guided them to a sushi restaurant and we parted ways there.

    Hello! My name is Hideki Maruyama. I was born in Osaka and raised in the Greater Tokyo area. I obtained my National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter Certificate in February 2016.
    I spent 23 years working at a leading Japanese automotive company, including 7 years posted overseas. I then worked for a German premium automotive manufacturer for 13 years, followed by 6 years as an advisor to a British energy company. Through these roles at global corporations, I developed and refined key skills such as:
    1. Cross-cultural communication
    2. A deep understanding of business elites and affluent customers
    3. The ability to deliver impactful and impressive presentations in English
    In addition to my regular duties, I often served as an interpreter for top executives during meetings with foreign government officials. I also had opportunities to introduce aspects of Japan—such as our national character and consumer preferences—to leadership teams in both the German and British companies.
    As a tour guide, I’ve had the pleasure of guiding guests from a wide range of countries especially after the pandemic, including the US, UK, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, Belgium, Switzerland, Austria, Norway, Romania, Slovenia, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, India, Hong Kong, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Brazil, Argentina, Columbia, Thailand, Malaysia, the Philippines, Laos, Turkey, Jordan, Kenya and Israel.
    When guiding, I always keep in mind to go beyond what guests can find on social media or ChatGPT. I believe my professional background allows me to offer unique insights, and I am encouraged when guests mention this in their reviews

    Jun 14, 2026
    tiffany_w
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Phenomenal experiance
    Hideki san was an amazing guide. He was incredibly knowledgable…

    Jun 13, 2026
    Joshua_A
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    The Best Guide I Had in Japan
    Hideki was, without question, my…

    May 2, 2026
    Bruce G
    Our guide (Hideki san) was a master. It was a rainy day and he suggested a new plan in anticipation…

    Apr 30, 2026
    johnbD9596UO
    Lovely Private tour of Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    My wife and I had a great…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 10:55 Meet up @MIMARU Shinjuku Tokyo WEST
    • 2. 11:05 Travel: Subway
    • 3. 11:55 Stay @Tsukiji
    • 4. 12:50 Lunch @Tsukiji Uogashi
    • 5. 13:55 Travel: Subway
    • 6. 14:45 Stay @Nakano Broadway
    • 7. 16:25 Travel: Subway
    • 8. 16:50 Stay @Shinjuku
    • 9. 18:15 Disband @JR Shinjuku Station New South Exit

    Nakano Broadway Private Tour Report: What Can a Licensed Guide Show You for Takashi Murakami Art and Anime Fans? This turned out to be a valuable tour with many first-time experiences. From an email received in advance, I learned that the guests (particularly one of the guests) were interested in the artwork of Takashi Murakami, so I guided them to a retro-style coffee shop inside Nakano Broadway where you can enjoy Murakami's art. It is a shop that does not take reservations, and the system involves taking a numbered ticket at the entrance and waiting. During the wait, there was enough time to purchase the guests' favorite anime goods on another floor, which was very efficient. The guests seemed very pleased to be able to buy their favorite Murakami art goods as well. Nakano Broadway is less crowded than Akihabara and has many specialized shops, so I felt it would be a useful spot going forward depending on the guests' tastes and interests. After guiding them around some spots near Shinjuku Station, in response to a request to purchase Shinkansen tickets, I took them to the New South Exit of Shinjuku Station. After the purchase, I received the fee for the tour extension and we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassTochomae Station~Tsukijishijo Station900JPY
    Section 2Free PassTsukiji Station~Nakano Station0JPY
    Section 3Free PassNakano Station~Iidabashi Station0JPY
    Section 4Free PassIidabashi Station~Shinjuku-nishiguchi Station0JPY
    Total900JPY

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

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

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

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

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

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 10:00 Meet at airbnb, ( 2 chome-10-15 Okubo, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo-to 169-0072, Japan
    • 2. 10:30 Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Observatory
    • 3. 11:30 Meiji Shrine
    • 4. 12:30 From Takeshita Street to Omotesando
    • 5. 13:30 Koishikawa Korakuen Garden
    • 5. 14:00 Disband at Koishikawa Korakuen Garden

    What Can You See on a Private Tokyo Walking Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report After the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building observation deck, the original plan was to view the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, but upon learning that there is no actual castle standing there, the guests decided to skip it. Instead, we went to the areas of Meiji Shrine, Harajuku, Omotesando, and Takeshita Street. From Meiji-jingumae Station, we took the Chiyoda Line to Kasumigaseki Station, transferred to the Marunouchi Line, got off at Korakuen Station, and strolled through Koishikawa Korakuen Garden. As it was the scheduled end time of the tour, we parted ways there. I deliberately used the Marunouchi Line so that it would pass through Ginza Station along the way, allowing me to advise the guests on how to reach Ginza on their own after the tour. Furthermore, since one can travel directly from Ginza to Shibuya on a single Ginza Line ride, I made it easier for them to reach their desired intersection on their own as well. The early autumn blue sky and clouds in this photo were wonderful, perhaps the finest of the entire year.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassHigashi-Shinjuku~Tochomae900JPY
    Section 2Free PassTochomae~Yoyogi0JPY
    Section 3Free PassMeiji-jingumae~Korakuen0JPY
    Total900JPY

    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…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Ueno Park & Asakusa

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Ueno Park & Asakusa

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at JR Ueno Station Park Exit
    • 10:00 Ueno Park
    • 11:30 Ameya-Yokocho
    • 12:30 Asakusa
    • 13:40 Disband near the Main Hall of Senso-ji Temple

    What Is a Private Walking Tour of Ueno, Ameyoko, and Asakusa Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests, a group visiting Japan from Europe, were guided around Ueno Park, Ameyoko, and Asakusa. From the Ueno Park exit, we passed by the National Museum of Western Art and Ueno Zoo, and continued to Ueno Toshogu Shrine. This historic shrine dating back to the Edo period made a strong impression on the group. They also said the many stone lanterns were wonderful. After visiting Hanazono Shrine, Ana Inari, and Gojoten Shrine, we went to the Bentendo at Shinobazu Pond. The lotus flowers had already finished blooming, but the green leaves still remained and were beautiful. We visited Kiyomizu Kannon-do and the statue of Saigo Takamori, and then went to Ameyoko. The group purchased the dried fruit they had requested at "Kojimaya." After that, we headed to Asakusa. First, they enjoyed the view from the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center, and along Nakamise they looked for the jinbei they had requested, but there were none in larger sizes, so they purchased a yukata instead. After visiting the main hall of Sensoji Temple and Asakusa Shrine, the group said they would like to have a meal a little early, so we parted ways near the main hall. It was a refreshing, clear autumn day, and it was a wonderful time spent with a lovely group of guests. Since the only meeting point given was Ueno Station and I did not have detailed information, and I could not get a quick reply, I was a little worried, but I was relieved that we were able to meet without any trouble. I am also grateful to the staff of [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) for all their support. Thank you very much.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayUeno Station~Asakusa Station180JPY
    Total180JPY

    Select a guide: enter the WordPress Guide post ID or Guide ID in the block settings.

    Apr 14, 2025
    618phillipa
    Wonderful tour of Tokyo on foot and metro
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Emiko was a wonderful…

    Oct 17, 2024
    Shane_N
    Great guide and experience
    Viator review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Wonderful tour giving a great taste of Tokyo.…

  • Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour

    Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 9:30 Meet next to the central ticket gate at JR Himeji Station
    • 2. 10:10 Himeji Castle tour starts
    • 3. 12:30 After finishing Himeji Castle, shopping time at the shop next to the exit
    • 4. 13:00 Visit Kokoen Garden
    • 5. 13:50 Tour ends in front of Kokoen Garden, return to Nikaimachi Street and disband

    Title: What Is a Private Himeji Castle and Kokoen Garden Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report I sent several emails to the guests but received no reply. It seemed they were using a messaging app, so I sent a message there as well, but still received no response. I contacted the coordinator at [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) to help encourage a reply, and the coordinator also tried to reach out via the messaging app, but I was informed that the messages had not even been marked as read by the evening before the tour. At that point, my own messages had not been read either. I intended to go to the meeting place on time regardless, and the coordinator also instructed me to go to the meeting place even if there was no contact. However, around 8 p.m. that night, a message finally came from the guests through the messaging app, and I was able to carry out the tour the following day. The guests seemed to greatly enjoy both Himeji Castle and Kokoen Garden. They were very interested in the castle's defensive systems and were impressed that it was easy to understand why the castle was considered impregnable, admiring it as a beautiful and sturdy fortress. After leaving Kokoen Garden, we tentatively concluded the tour, but they said they wanted a late lunch, preferably tonkatsu, so I guided them to "Musashi," a long-established and easy-to-enter restaurant in Himeji, and we parted ways. Right up until the night before the tour day, I was on edge, worried that the tour might be cancelled at the last minute.

    I am Hiromi Mizoi, call me Hiro. I mainly have Himeji tours because I live in Himeji. I got my National Guide Certificate in 2017. I started to guide tourists as a volunteer guide in 2004. I had been a volunteer guide for a long time. However, I could not have any tours from April in 2020 to November in 2022 due to the Covid-19 Pandemic. Now, many tourists have come back to Japan. So, I am very excited. I would like to share not only the beauty of Himeji Castle’s Main Tower Complex but also the tricky defense systems of the entire Castle Grounds, which many visitors do not realize, with you. I was born and grew up very close to the west side of the moats of the Castle. So, I love Himeji Castle. I like other tourists’ favorite sightseeing spots such as Kokoen Garden and Engyoji Temple in Mt. Shosya. As one of Himeji locals, I am greatly happy to share the local people’s favorite spots with you. I look forward to your tours.

    May 31, 2026
    Ash N
    Tripadvisor review: Himeji Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Guided tour recommended for maximum enjoyment at Himeji Castle.
    Wonderful, informative…

    May 25, 2026
    IrinaVadim
    Tripadvisor review: Himeji Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Himeji Castle and Kokoen park
    Hiromi Misoi is a very knowledgeable and…

    Mar 28, 2025
    esperanzarZ60BH
    Great experience
    Tripadvisor review: Himeji Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Had a great time. Hiro was fantastic. She provided so…

    Feb 16, 2025
    hayleigho412
    Himeji Castle
    Tripadvisor review: Himeji Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had an excellent day with our guide, Hiromi Mizoi…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Shinjuku Kabukicho

    Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Shinjuku Kabukicho

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Meet up @ Hotel
    • 09:30 Shibuya Scramble Crossing・Hachiko
    • 10:00 Meiji Shrine
    • 11:00 Omotesando (THE NORTH FACE Mountain & Nike Harajuku)
    • 12:20 Imperial Palace
    • 13:00 Numazu Uogashi Sushi (Marunouchi Building)
    • 14:20 Sensoji Temple
    • 15:50 Shinjuku Gyoen
    • 16:40 Shinjuku Kabukicho (Shinjuku Golden Gai・Godzilla Head・3D Cat Screen)
    • 17:10 Disband @ Shinjuku Station East Exit

    What Is a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Meiji Shrine, Asakusa, and Shinjuku Gyoen The guests were visitors from North America, and it was their first time in Japan. They planned to travel to Kyoto and Okinawa after sightseeing in Tokyo. At Meiji Shrine, they seemed impressed by the quiet and solemn atmosphere, which was quite different from Shibuya. On Omotesando, they purchased some outdoor clothing. At the Imperial Palace, they listened with great interest to historical explanations about the role of the Emperor, the Meiji Restoration, and the Edo Shogunate. For lunch, they enjoyed sushi. At Senso-ji Temple, they were interested in explanations about the differences between shrines and temples. At Shinjuku Gyoen, they enjoyed the beautiful Japanese garden. Since I responded exactly to the guests' wishes, I believe they were satisfied.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinjuku~Shibuya170JPY
    Section 2TrainShibuya~Harajuku150JPY
    Section 3SubwayMeiji-jingumae~Nijubashimae600JPY
    Section 4TrainTokyo~Ueno170JPY
    Section 5SubwayUeno~Asakusa0JPY
    Section 6SubwayAsakusa~Shinjuku-gyoemmae0JPY
    Total1,090JPY

    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

    Jul 10, 2026
    surferbikerdude1
    Tripadvisor review: Kamakura Day Trip from Tokyo in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Beautiful Tour of Kamakura
    Seizo Kamiuto was out…

    Jun 9, 2026
    stacy_grana
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A wonderful day with an experienced guide
    Our guide, Seizo, was amazing.…

    Jun 6, 2026
    U9351HJjakes
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo Tour
    Seizo Kamiuto was great and super knowledgeable. He had a…

    May 20, 2026
    HugoJ670
    Tripadvisor review: Edo Tokyo & Japanese Culture Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Tokio in de zon
    Seizo Kaminto is een uitstekende…