Category: Uncategorized

  • Nara Day Trip from Osaka by Private Car

    Nara Day Trip from Osaka by Private Car

    Nara Day Trip from Osaka by Private Car with Licensed Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:50 ツアー開始（W大阪）
    • 車で
    • 11:00-12:00 法隆寺
    • 12:00-12:50 釜めし弁慶で昼食
    • 車で
    • 13:40-14:30 奈良公園の浮雲園地
    • （奈良を出発するまで公園内に滞在します。）
    • 徒歩で
    • 14:40-15:10 春日大社
    • 若草山の麓を10分歩いて
    • 15:20-15:50 東大寺二月堂
    • 徒歩5分で
    • 16:00 東大寺鐘楼
    • 徒歩10分で
    • 16:10-40 東大寺大仏殿
    • 車で
    • 18:00 ツアー終了（W大阪）

    Title: What Is a Private Nara Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from South America. One of the guests began to look quite tired partway through the tour, mentioning that they had been in a conference until 3 a.m. the previous night. Had I known this at the start, I could have adjusted the itinerary in any number of ways, but the fatigue became apparent around the base of Mount Wakakusa, and there was no choice but to continue on foot. At the Great Buddha Hall, one of the guests said they would rather sit and wait outside, but I strongly encouraged them, saying that this was the final stop and the highlight of the day, so please do come inside. In the end, they were very pleased that they did.

    Click here for more details: Nara Day Trip from Osaka by Private Car with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Junichi

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

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    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: Hiroshima Station & Atomic Bomb Dome

    Hiroshima in One Day: Hiroshima Station & Atomic Bomb Dome

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

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Hiroshima Station
    • 10:30 Miyajima
    • 14:00 Lunch
    • 16:00 Hiroshima Peace Park
    • 18:00 Atomic Bomb Dome

    What Is a Private Hiroshima and Miyajima Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting from North America. At the time we met, they kindly gave me a lovely gift. They mentioned that they live in North America, and when we talked about the area, they shared that one of their relatives had graduated from a well-known university. (^^)v Around noon the temperature was about 30 degrees Celsius, with very strong sunshine, though there was a slightly cool breeze. On Miyajima they ordered an oyster set menu, and since they enjoyed the oysters so much, they added an order of grilled oysters and fried oysters as well. Recently, many restaurants have adopted multilingual tablet ordering systems, which has made things much easier for guides.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHiroshima Station～Miyajimaguchi Station420JPY
    Section 2TrainMiyajimaguchi Station～Nishi-Hiroshima Station330JPY
    Section 3BusNishi-Hiroshima Station～Hiroshima Peace Park220JPY
    Total970JPY

    Tour Report by Yuji

    Originally, I’m a cycling guide doing cycling tours all over Japan.
    But, already done Hiroshima & Miyajima tour more than 400 times.
    I traveled many countries in my younger days. I traveled Europe, US, China, India, US, Mexico, Peru Australia, NZ, and so on.
    I decided to use this experience to become a guide.
    I’m afraid but no tipping required, because cycling guides are not allowed to have tipping in my association. And you do not need to pay for my lunch, because my lunch is prepared by our group.
    Please do not hesitate to ask me anything, I’ll change the plan according to your requests.
    Thank you for your understanding and please stay connected.

    Request Booking

    Jun 1, 2026
    John_W
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    A top day with a top guide
    My wife…

    May 27, 2026
    Annabelle_C
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Hiroshima in a day
    Yuji was a great communicator…

    May 12, 2026
    satishp656
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    HIROSHIMA HALF DAY TOUR
    Yuji is a warm, knowledgeble…

    May 10, 2026
    StephanieB6076
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Incredible Experience
    We had an incredible experience visiting Hiroshima…

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1.10:00 Meet @ Hotel Kyoto
    • 2.11:00 @ Kinkaku-ji
    • 3.12:10 @ Ryoan-ji
    • 4.13:20 @ Nijo-jo-mae
    • 5.14:05 @ Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 6.15:22 Disband @ Kyoto Station

    **Title:** What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Kinkaku-ji, Ryoan-ji, and Fushimi Inari The guests were a group visiting from Europe. Their requests for the itinerary were that they did not need to visit Nishiki Market, and that they wanted to go to an Apple Store at the end. We visited Kinkaku-ji and Ryoan-ji, and I next tried to guide them to Nijo Castle, but when we arrived in front of Nijo Castle and they heard the admission fee, they said they would skip going inside. They said castles are the same everywhere, and that they would rather go to the railway museum. So from the front of Nijo Castle we headed to Fushimi Inari. After touring Fushimi Inari, we took the JR to Kyoto Station, where they boarded the Sagano Line. When I explained that the railway museum was just one stop away, they said I could head home. So we parted ways there. They were very pleased with Fushimi Inari. They did not have much cash on hand, so I paid the admission fees for both Kinkaku-ji and Ryoan-ji on their behalf. After touring Fushimi Inari, they withdrew cash from an ATM at a post office. They mentioned that in their home region everything can be done cashlessly, and wondered whether that was not possible in Japan, which made me feel the difference in culture.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassShichijo-Horikawa～Kinkaku-ji-michi1,100JPY
    Section 2OtherKinkaku-ji～Ryoan-ji0JPY
    Section 3BusRyoan-ji～Wara Tenjin0JPY
    Section 4BusWara Tenjin～Nishioji-Oike0JPY
    Section 5SubwayNishioji-Oike～Nijo-jo-mae0JPY
    Section 6SubwayNijo-jo-mae～Kyoto0JPY
    Section 7TrainKyoto～Inari150JPY
    Section 8TrainInari～Kyoto150JPY
    Total1,400JPY

    Tour Report by Shoko

    I am an experienced guide, who live in Osaka. I have been a Government-Licensed Guide in English since 2018. I have already guided a lot of tourists overseas in Kansai Area, that is, in the vicinity of my prefecture, Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, Kobe, and Himeji. I am especially good at guiding in Kansai Area with sufficient knowledge of history, culture and transportation. I have guided people ranging from a small group of one or two to a group of 20-50 people in a big bus, that is, a coach. I like delicious food, because Osaka is a city of Kuidaorre, which means that people in Osaka love to eat and never spend too much money on food. Therefore, as an Osakan, I will do my best to explore restaurants which serve most delicious foods in wherever I take to my guests.

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    Mar 31, 2026
    Michael A
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Perfectly customized tour
    Shoko San did an amazing job planning a…

    Mar 29, 2026
    judyl582
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Shoko was great
    Shoko was an excellent guide. From the moment she…

    Oct 8, 2025
    441gayh
    World Heritage Kyoto places with the best guide
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Absolutely perfect! SHOKO was…

    Oct 3, 2025
    Judi H
    Introduction to Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a wonderful tour with Shoko.
    She…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Shibuya Station & Nishi-Shinjuku Station

    Tokyo in One Day: Shibuya Station & Nishi-Shinjuku Station

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meeting place: Hotel Tokyu
    • 10:10 Depart Shibuya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Asakusa Station
    • (Tobu Skytree Line)
    • 11:00 Arrive Tokyo Skytree Station
    • Tokyo Skytree Tokyo Skytree
    • 12:00 Depart Tokyo Skytree Station
    • (Tobu Skytree Line)
    • 12:15 Arrive Asakusa Station
    • Asakusa Senso-ji Temple
    • Asakusa Shrine
    • Nakamise Shopping Street
    • 13:00 Depart Asakusa Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Nihonbashi
    • (Tokyo Metro Tozai Line)
    • 13:15 Arrive Otemachi Station
    • Tokyo Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • Nijubashi Bridge
    • 14:00 Depart Otemachi Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • Kasumigaseki Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line)
    • 14:30 Arrive Nishi-Shinjuku Station
    • Nishi-Shinjuku Shinjuku Island Tower
    • Depart Nishi-Shinjuku Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line)
    • 15:30 Arrive Shinjuku Station
    • Shinjuku Kabukicho
    • Omoide Yokocho
    • 16:15 Depart Shinjuku Station
    • (JR Yamanote Line)
    • 16:30 Arrive Shibuya Station
    • To Shibuya Food Show
    • 16:30 Dismissal: Hotel Tokyu

    Title: What's a Full-Day Private Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Covering Shibuya, Asakusa, Skytree, and Shinjuku The guests were visitors from North America, both visiting Japan for the first time. They had arrived at Haneda Airport on a direct flight the previous day and taken a taxi to their Hotel. The night before, they had strolled around the Shibuya area. The next day they planned a day trip to Mount Fuji and the Fuji Five Lakes, and the day after that they would board a cruise ship departing from Yokohama, visiting Kagoshima, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Vietnam before ending in Singapore. From Singapore they planned to fly home. Under cloudy skies (though it never actually rained), we conducted the tour with several rest breaks along the way. First, we went from Shibuya via Asakusa to Tokyo Skytree. "I realized what a vast city Tokyo is," they said. We were able to see Mount Fuji faintly in the distance. From there we headed to Asakusa. Passing through Kaminarimon and the Nakamise shopping street, we reached the main hall. I explained "the history of Senso-ji Temple and the transition from Edo to Tokyo" and "the difference between Buddhism and Shinto." They asked questions such as "Do all Japanese people believe in Buddhism?", "What kind of teachings does Buddhism offer?", and "Are there Christians here?" We then moved to the Imperial Palace. I explained "the Meiji Restoration" and "the current challenges facing the Imperial Family." "I really liked the beautiful pine trees," they said, and also asked, "Does the Emperor really live inside here?" After this, they said, "We'd like to check out tomorrow's meeting point for the Mount Fuji tour," so we went to Nishi-Shinjuku and the Shinjuku Island Tower. Then we moved to the east exit of Shinjuku. We strolled through "Shinjuku Golden Gai" (though all the shops were closed), "Kabukicho," and "Omoide Yokocho." We also viewed the Godzilla Head. "The atmosphere here is completely different from the other neighborhoods in the city," they commented. We returned to Shibuya, and since they said, "We'd like to buy some wine," we went to the food hall beneath Mark City. They commented, "The whole city is clean. There's no litter on the ground," "The public toilets are clean and pleasant," "The subway is quiet and clean," and "Why aren't there any trash cans on the streets?" They also remarked, "Back home there have been many immigrants from abroad recently, and the streets have become dirty and dangerous." We parted ways at the entrance to their Hotel.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShibuya Station～Asakusa Station252JPY
    Section 2TrainAsakusa Station～Tokyo Skytree Station157JPY
    Section 3TrainTobu Skytree Line Station～Asakusa Station157JPY
    Section 4SubwayAsakusa Station～Otemachi Station178JPY
    Section 5SubwayNijubashimae Station～Nishi-Shinjuku Station209JPY
    Section 6SubwayNishi-Shinjuku Station～Shinjuku Station178JPY
    Section 7TrainShinjuku Station～Shibuya Station167JPY
    Total1,298JPY

    Tour Report by Masa

    Guiding career:
    Guide work started in July 2022. A guide focused on FIT compliance.
    FY2022 results: 17 cases, FY2023 results: 97
    Destinations: Various places in Tokyo, Hakone, Kamakura and Nikko
    As a recent group travel record, in October 2023, we have a track record of guiding a group of 33 people from Singapore to Narita Airport transfer plus sightseeing in Tokyo.
    Self-introduction:
    In the past, I was stationed in Canada, the United States, and Mexico as an expatriate of a Japanese bank for over 11 years.
    Since I have been mainly involved in the financing business in the United States for a long time, I think I am able to provide interpretation and translation services related to business and finance.
    I am a certified CPA in the United States.
    In addition, for three years from April 2016, I will be engaged in Japanese-English translation work (part-time), and I can also handle translation work.
    Although I don’t have a qualification in Spanish, but I think I can handle day to day conversation in Spanish without any problems.
    My hobby is trekking and from time to time, take a walk around mountains near Tokyo like Mt. Takao, Tanzawa, etc. I think it is possible to provide tourist information here as well.
    Since April 2015, I have been working as a Tokyo Metropolitan Tourism Volunteer and Tokyo Metropolitan Disaster Prevention Volunteer.
    One more, I have a separate house near Asuka Village, Nara prefecture, and I stay there for a total of about 30 days every year and have been enjoying sightseeing personally in the vicinity. Therefore, I think in the Kansai region, especially in Nara, Asuka, Yoshino, Koyasan, Kumano Kodo, etc., where I think I will be able to tour guide with confidence.

    Request Booking

    Jul 21, 2026
    Christelle_G
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour guide
    Masa san is extremely knowledgeable and…

    Jul 1, 2026
    97TexAg
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Amazing day in Tokyo
    Masa was our tour guide. Masa was an…

    Jun 2, 2026
    Tagare S
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour and guide!
    This is a great tour, and our…

    Jun 1, 2026
    Lisa_A
    Viator review: Private Tokyo Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Adler Family Tour
    Our tour with Masa was…

  • Tokyo: East Gardens of the Imperial Palace & Shimokitazawa

    Tokyo: East Gardens of the Imperial Palace & Shimokitazawa

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet up @Edition Ginza
    • 9:15 View Sakuradamon and Nijubashi from the car window
    • 9:20 East Gardens of the Imperial Palace
    • 11:15 Walk around Shinjuku
    • 12:15 Lunch @Tsuta Ramen
    • 13:15 Walk around Shimokitazawa
    • 14:45 Disband @Higashi-Kitazawa

    What Is a Private Tour of Tokyo's Modern Culture Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan for the first time. These guests had booked multiple [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) tours through a travel agency, each guided by a different guide. We were able to cooperate by staying in contact with one another. Since my guiding day was the last, I received helpful information from the guides who had led the earlier tours, which was a great help. This was actually my first tour that included a vehicle, and I was worried about knowing the pick-up and drop-off locations, but the driver was very kind and helpful, which made things much easier. Once we reached Shimokitazawa, the vehicle was no longer needed, and the driver kindly delivered the items the guests had purchased to the Hotel afterward. The guests had already visited many places, and the destinations kept changing from the previous day, which was stressful, but I am grateful that the driver kindly accommodated everything. Aside from the Imperial Palace, the places we visited had not been part of the original plan, but they happened to be locations I had guided many times before, so I believe the guests were satisfied. Having seen traditional Japanese culture in Kansai, Kanazawa, and Hakone, the guests were delighted to also experience modern culture at the end. I hope this tour becomes a wonderful memory of their trip.

    Click here for more details: Tokyo Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Yoko

    I’m Yoko Kusumoto, a government lisenced English-speaking guide.
    I have been living in Tokyo for more than 20 years, and it’s my pleasure to show you around Tokyo. I recommend Meiji Shrine and Asakusa if you are first time in Japan. I also recommend off-the-beaton path spots like Fukagawa Fudodo and Gotokuji Temple(lucky cat temple).
    I was born and brought up in Kamakura, where the first shogun’s government was established. It will be my pleasure to introduce you my hometown as well.

    I live with my husband and one teenage son.
    I like traveling, flowers, sewing, quilting, scrapbooking, and exploring Tokyo.

    I’m looking forward to hearing from you soon.

    Request Booking

    Jun 2, 2026
    ericahT6840AD
    Awesome!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our day with Yoko was great! She took us to some…

    May 20, 2026
    CharKris17
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo Walking Tour
    We did a six-hour walking tour of Tokyo with…

    May 3, 2026
    jefftK1794VZ
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Fantastic day exploring Tokyo
    This was our first time visiting Tokyo and…

    Oct 23, 2025
    Y6401BOshaunam
    Knowledgable, engaging guide Yoko Kusmoto made day of Tokyo history, architecture and insights exceptional. le.
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour…

  • Hokkaido in One Day: Goryokaku Tower & Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse

    Hokkaido in One Day: Goryokaku Tower & Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse

    Hakodate Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Hakodate Port Meet
    • 9:30 Goryokaku Tower
    • 10:30 Hakodate Magistrate's Office
    • 12:10 Hakodate Morning Market Lunch
    • 13:15 To the summit via Mount Hakodate Ropeway
    • 14:30 Shopping at Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse
    • 14:40 Tour ends

    What Is a Private Hakodate Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from the Middle East. At the sites they visited, they took many photos and viewed the exhibits with great interest. After lunch, we took a taxi to the entrance of the ropeway. Since there were five of us including myself, I had thought we might need two cars, but fortunately we were able to catch a five-seater taxi. At the summit of Mount Hakodate the weather was fine and the wind was not too strong, so the guests enjoyed the scenery. When we reached the Kanemori Red Brick Warehouses for shopping, the guests suggested that they would do the rest of their shopping on their own and return to the ship, and so the tour came to an end. The photo was taken during a break inside Goryokaku Tower.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHakodate Station～Hakodate Station600JPY
    Section 2OtherHakodate Morning Market～Mount Hakodate Ropeway Station0JPY
    Section 3OtherMount Hakodate Ropeway Entrance～Mount Hakodate Ropeway Entrance1,800JPY
    Total2,400JPY

    Tour Report by KAZU

    I was born and grew up in Kyoto and now live near Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto. I used to be a schoolteacher of English and welcome a lot of students from foreign countries. I really enjoyed showing them around Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, Himeji, and Hiroshima. I have been a professional tour guide for about 8 years. I always try to let my guests learn Japanese traditional and modern culture. Since I was born in Kyoto, I know a lot about its culture and people. I myself enjoyed several sports, such as soccer, judo, and marathon when I was young. I’m much interested in baseball and sumo. My motto as a tour guide is to let my guests learn about our tradition and culture precisely and really enjoy themselves. I strongly hope you will enjoy the tour in Japan with me.

    Request Booking

    Jul 24, 2026
    Trail65429092687
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto Tour
    Kazua Sumi is a very accomplished guide.He has deep…

    Jul 23, 2026
    489caelinp
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto Guided Tour
    My friend and I had a great experience…

    Jul 16, 2026
    margaretsM7923ON
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Great way to see Kyoto
    Wonderful tour and exceptional guide.

    Jul 9, 2026
    Sandra_B
    Kazuo was great and…
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Kazuo was great and provided…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Kayabacho Station & Harajuku

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Kayabacho Station & Harajuku

    Tsukiji Local Food & Culture Half-Day Tour, Licensed Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meet up @ Hotel
    • 9:40 Kayabacho Station
    • 9:50 Tsukiji Station
    • Fish Market, Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 11:25 Tsukiji Station
    • 11:55 Meiji-jingumae Station
    • Meiji Shrine
    • 13:05 Harajuku
    • Takeshita Street, Ura-Harajuku
    • 13:30 Disband @ Ramen Shop

    What Is a Private Tsukiji and Meiji Jingu Walking Tour in Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan from North America. Since they had booked the Tsukiji Tour, I had imagined they were interested in food, and as one of the guests especially enjoyed cooking, I introduced dashi and various cooking methods as much as I could, which they were delighted with. While we were strolling through Meiji Jingu, they mentioned it was a special trip, and just as I was thinking I hadn't prepared anything, by coincidence we came across a Shinto-style wedding procession. I translated the words the Shinto priest was giving to the newlyweds. As the message was about a harmonious married life, the guests seemed quite moved. At the end, I took them to a recommended ramen shop and we parted ways there.

    Click here for more details: Tsukiji Local Food & Culture Half-Day Tour, Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKayabacho Station～Tsukiji Station180JPY
    Section 2SubwayTsukiji Station～Meiji-jingumae Station210JPY
    Total390JPY

    Tour Report by Lily

    Hi there! Thank you so much for hitting my page!
    I’m Yuriko, but please call me Lily!
    I’m a qualified guide and interpreter, proud to be awarded as one of the finalists of Japan guide awards 2025.

    I have conducted over 100 tours a year since March 2024, with more than 90% of my clients awarding a five-star rating.

    I love Japanese food(eating and cooking!), cultures such as traditional arts and crafts, and so much more! I’ve always explored places seeking new things and love to share them with you.

    I was born and raised in Tokyo(for over 40 years!) but used to live in the U.S. for a couple of years as a child.
    I am proud to be able to introduce the charms of Japan from multiple perspectives based on my experience of interacting with people from many different nationalities.

    I am happy to tailor an original plan or to arrange your bucket list advancing it to a better option.
    The following is my contact information:
    lilyjapanguide@gmail.com

    I’m looking forward to guiding and sharing the excitement of Japan!!

    Request Booking

    Sep 17, 2025
    785hongc
    Wonderful 6 hour Tokyo tour with Lily in September
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a…

    Sep 16, 2025
    H
    Hong_C
    A wonderful day tour of Tokyo in September
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Best relaxed educational…

    Jul 18, 2025
    Venture26940872209
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Lilly was an excellent guide .. lots of communication before the visit…

    Jul 1, 2025
    michaellG938KC
    Lily is the best. Highly recommended
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Lily is an amazing guide and…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Akihabara & Okubo

    Tokyo in One Day: Akihabara & Okubo

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 12:00 Meet up at Wagyu Yakiniku PANGA Asakusa
    • 12:15 Nakamise Shopping Street, Senso-ji Temple
    • 13:15 Akihabara
    • 15:00 Meiji Shrine
    • 16:30 Shibuya
    • 17:30 Okubo
    • 18:00 End of tour at Ushinobe Sake Bar

    What's a Private Walking Tour of Shibuya Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting from North America and were stopping in Tokyo on their way to another destination in Asia. We met after they had finished a roughly two-hour sushi experience they had found through a food app. Since their main interest was enjoying food and they wanted to see the city briefly, I showed them some of the representative spots. The guests were impressed by the view of Shibuya from PARCO and Tokyu Plaza, saying it was very cool and that they felt a freshness different from what they were used to. After the tour, they had a reservation at a wagyu and sake restaurant in Okubo that they had found through the same app used for the sushi experience. Since it was in a rather complicated location, I took them all the way to the restaurant. They thanked me warmly for the kind assistance, and the tour came to an end.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainTEX Asakusa～Akihabara220JPY
    Section 2TrainAkihabara～Harajuku178JPY
    Section 3TrainHarajuku～Shibuya146JPY
    Section 4TrainShibuya～Okubo167JPY
    Total711JPY

    Tour Report by Kris

    My name is Kris,
    Before becoming a tour guide, I worked for a major steelmaking company as an engineer for many years. During my career, I lived and worked in both Germany and the United States for a total of five years. These experiences helped me understand different cultures and ways of thinking, which now helps me connect easily with guests from around the world.

    After retirement, I chose a second career as a tour guide because I truly enjoy meeting people from different countries and sharing Japanese culture, history, and daily life. I have been working as a guide for more than nine years and continue to enjoy every tour.

    I currently live in Tokyo, but I was born and raised in Kobe, near Osaka, and my family roots are in Kyoto. As a result, I have extensive knowledge not only of Tokyo but also of Kyoto, Osaka, and many other parts of Japan. I enjoy introducing both famous landmarks and hidden local gems that many visitors might otherwise miss.

    I am energetic, friendly, and very sociable. I always try to create tours that are relaxed, flexible, and tailored to my guests’ interests.

    Travel is one of my greatest passions, especially visiting hot spring resorts. I have visited more than 80 onsen destinations throughout Japan, giving me a deep appreciation of Japanese culture and regional traditions.

    Whether you are visiting Japan for the first time or returning for another adventure, I would be delighted to help you discover the real Japan from a local perspective.

    I look forward to meeting you and helping you create wonderful memories in Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and beyond.

    See you in Japan!

    Kris

    Request Booking

    May 10, 2026
    Matt_B
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A Wonderful Introduction to Tokyo
    We were so lucky to have Kris-San…

    Apr 29, 2026
    Rebecca_M
    Viator review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour
    We had such a wonderful…

    Apr 21, 2026
    jacquir581
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We love Kris
    Kris was awesome! He was very flexible when our…

    Apr 2, 2026
    Frank_B
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A great day in Tokyo
    Great tour with an excellent guide, Kris.…

  • Tsukiji Local Food & Culture Half-Day Tour

    Tsukiji Local Food & Culture Half-Day Tour

    Tsukiji Local Food & Culture Half-Day Tour, Licensed Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • （8：30）Hotel－（8：40）Sensoji Temple－（9：50）Tsukiji－（10：00）Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple, （10：20）Tsukiji Outer Market－（11：40）Nezu Shrine－（12：20）Yanaka－（12：50）Yanaka Ginza－Disband

    What's a Budget-Friendly Local Private Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Tsukiji, and Yanaka The guests were visitors from North America who requested a trip that would keep spending relatively low if possible. I had emailed to ask whether they would prefer modern spots or local spots, but there was no reply to that message, so I prepared two plans and set off with both ready. I waited early at the Hotel. Around the meeting time, the guests were wandering back and forth right in front of me, so I asked their names and confirmed they were my guests. It seemed the email had not reached them. We decided on the local plan and headed to the station while talking about Senso-ji Temple, Asakusa Shrine, and religion. At Tsukiji, the guests found it fascinating that Hongan-ji and Senso-ji, both Buddhist temples, had such different appearances. At the outer market, they tried one appealing item after another that they liked — sushi, sweets, wagyu beef, croquettes, crab and salmon inari sushi, and matcha. They seemed very satisfied and said they were full, so I switched to a walking tour to help them digest. At Nezu Shrine, they admired a building over 300 years old and took many photos of the torii gates at Otome Inari. After that we went to Yanaka; since I was heading back from Nippori as well, I guided them all the way to Yanaka Ginza. We ran a little over time, but I was glad they enjoyed Yanaka Ginza too. They were pleased, saying the food was delicious and that they had learned a great deal, which was a relief to me. We parted with my wish that they enjoy Japan.

    Click here for more details: Tsukiji Local Food & Culture Half-Day Tour, Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayAsakusa～Tsukiji210JPY
    Section 2SubwayTsukiji～Nezu180JPY
    Total390JPY

    Tour Report by Sally

    Hello, I’m Hizuru.
    I have a passion for sharing my knowledge and love for Japan with visitors from all over the world.
    After teaching English and Japanese to Elementary school and Junior high school students for about 15
    years, I got the National License of Guide and Interpreter in 2014 which allowed me to officially guide
    tourists around Japan.
    I have guided many tourists around Tokyo and its vicinities, helping them to discover the hidden gems of the
    city and learn about its rich history and traditions.
    Whether you’re interested in visiting historical landmarks, trying delicious Japanese cuisine, or experiencing
    the vibrant pop culture scene, I can tailor a tour suit your interests.
    My experience as a teacher greatly helped me in this role as I was able to efficiently communicate and engage
    with people from different backgrounds and cultures.
    I am dedicated to providing an unforgettable and insightful experience for all my guests.
    I look forward to welcoming you to in and around Tokyo and sharing the wonders of Japan with you.

    Request Booking

    Oct 14, 2025
    vanessajK6787GS
    Great day out and about in Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Hizuru was an absolute delight.…

    May 23, 2025
    Inspire25413313092
    Tokyo walking tour 2025
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Sally did a great job putting together a…

    May 3, 2025
    davidfZ3537PI
    Great tour with Hizuru!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great private tour with Hizuru! Prior to the…

    Apr 17, 2025
    Sharon_F
    Sampling of everything in one day!
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great sampling of lots of different…

  • Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1020 Meet at Kyoto Station
    • 1100 Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 1230 Togetsukyo Bridge
    • 1250 Lunch
    • 1315 Tenryu-ji ~ Bamboo Grove
    • 1402 Sagano Arashiyama
    • 1430 Disband at Kyoto Station
    • ~Tenryu-ji~Bamboo Grove

    What Is a Private Kyoto Day Tour from an Osaka Cruise Port Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting from the Middle East and arrived at Osaka by cruise ship. Initially, after Fushimi Inari, we had planned to visit Nijo Castle and the Imperial Palace, but since one of the guests wanted to see the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, we changed the itinerary on short notice. They were deeply impressed by the bamboo grove and said they were glad we made the change. Since the travel between locations took a long time, I sped up the pace a little, but that was not a problem. However, the guests had mistakenly booked their reserved seats for the return trip from Kyoto to Osaka for the following day, so there was a brief moment of panic. Fortunately, thanks to the advice of a JR staff member, we were able to switch the reservation smoothly and made it in time.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto～Inari150JPY
    Section 2TrainInari～Sagano Arashiyama240JPY
    Section 3TrainSagano Arashiyama～Kyoto240JPY
    Total630JPY

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

    Request Booking

    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…