Category: Uncategorized

  • Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 0840 Meet at Kyoto Station
    • 0910 Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 1045 Gion~Higashiyama
    • 1225 Ramen lunch at Shijo Kawaramachi
    • Disband at the above location

    Title: What Is a Private Kyoto Family Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Body: This was a private tour in Kyoto for a group of eight guests visiting from North America. Because some of the guests moved around quite a bit, I had to stay attentive to keep everyone together as a group. Some of the guests were also tired due to jet lag, so we carried out the tour while taking breaks along the way. Initially I had planned to see them off from the Higashiyama area to Kyoto Station, but since they were going to a ninja and samurai museum in the afternoon and some of the guests wanted to eat gyoza, I guided them to a ramen restaurant nearby, where we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto~Inari150JPY
    Section 2TrainFushimi Inari~Gion-Shijo220JPY
    Section 3BusGion~Shijo Kawaramachi230JPY
    Total600JPY

    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…

  • Takayama Customized Half-Day Tour

    Takayama Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 meet at the Mercure Hida Takayama→9:15 Hida Kokubunji Temple→9:30 Miyagawa Morning Market→10:30 Takayama Jinya Morning Market・Takayama Jinya→11:30 Sanmachi Suji (including Harada Brewery)→13:00 disband at Menya Shirakawa.

    Title: What Is a Private Walking Tour of Takayama Like? A Licensed Guide's Report When I met the guest at the Hotel, a guide from another tour company had also come to pick up the same guest. According to that guide, a double booking had also occurred recently (both arranged through the travel agency that booked this tour). Since that guide kindly said, "I will contact my own tour company, so please feel free to conduct the tour on your side this time," I proceeded to guide the guest. Whether it was a mistake or intentional is unclear, but double bookings arranged through this travel agency have occurred at least twice, so caution is advised. (If it would be better for me to make a complaint to the travel agency, please let me know.) The guest enjoyed the Miyagawa Morning Market, but since purchases would add to their luggage, they said they would come back the next day to buy things. They also enjoyed the structure and Japanese garden of the Takayama Jinya. On Sanmachi Suji, they bought some small souvenirs, but said they would buy larger items such as sweets in Kyoto, their final destination (to avoid extra luggage). They enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere of Takayama, which is different from Tokyo. Since the guest wished to have ramen for lunch, I guided them to a ramen restaurant that was open even on a Tuesday, and we parted ways there (they had been near the area the night before, so they also knew the way back). As many restaurants are closed on Tuesdays, I gave them a dining guide obtained from the tourist information center for their dinner.

    I am good at factory tours (sake, food, etc.), restaurants and entertainments for adult (pub, karaoke, snack bar, etc.).
    I have been to 91 countrires. And I traveled around the world (14 countrires) for three month in 2023.
    I like travel and I prefer vist islands in Japan. I have been to 232 islands in Japan.
    I am a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter. I am also Certified General Travel Services Manager, and Certified Domestic Tour Conductor.
    I had worked 35 years at Japanese beer company until last year. So, I like drinking very much.

    Welcome to Elvis’s guided tours! With a passion for Japan, I offer you an unforgettable experience exploring Japan. As a guide interpreter fluent in English, I ensure you not only see the sights but also understand the stories behind them.

    My guided tours are tailored to suit your interests, whether you’re intrigued by the ancient history of Japan, captivated by its vibrant culture, or simply want to immerse yourself in its natural beauty. With me, you’ll delve deep into the heart of [location], discovering hidden gems and local secrets that most tourists never experience.

    I bring to life the rich history of [location], narrating its tales of triumphs and tribulations with passion and flair. From the ancient ruins that whisper tales of bygone eras to the modern marvels that define its skyline, each tour is a journey through time, offering you a glimpse into the soul of Japan.

    Beyond history, I also showcase the vibrant culture of Japan, introducing you to its arts, cuisine, and traditions. Whether it’s savoring the flavors of local cuisine, exploring traditional crafts, or immersing yourself in festive celebrations, I ensure you experience the true essence of Japan.

    As a guide interpreter fluent in English, I bridge the gap between cultures, ensuring smooth communication and enriching interactions with locals. Whether you’re bargaining at a bustling market or conversing with a local artisan, I’m there to facilitate meaningful connections that enhance your travel experience.

    My guided tours are not just about sightseeing; they’re about creating lasting memories. I strive to make each tour informative, engaging, and, above all, fun! Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or in a group, I tailor the experience to suit your preferences, ensuring you leave with a deeper appreciation for Japan.

    So, if you’re ready to embark on a journey of discovery, join me on a guided tour that goes beyond the ordinary. Let me show you the wonders of Japan through the eyes of a passionate guide interpreter. Your adventure awaits!

    Apr 2, 2026
    Paul_M
    Viator review: Magome & Tsumago Nakasendo Full-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    Fascinating Tour of historic Trail
    We recently completed this…

    Sep 28, 2025
    Colleen_E
    Totally worth the cost! Thanks Elvis!
    Viator review: Nagoya Half-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
    Elvis was so great!…

    Apr 21, 2025
    E9436SKdrews
    great tour with Elvis
    Tripadvisor review: Takayama Local Cuisine, Food & Sake Cultural Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    My wife and I…

    Apr 13, 2025
    cecilia_c
    This was such a beautiful…
    Viator review: Magome & Tsumago Nakasendo Trail Day Hike with Government-Licensed Guide
    This was such a…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 10:30 Hotel New Otani Tokyo Garden Tower
    • 2. 11:00 Sakuradamon, Nijubashi, Statue of Kusunoki Masashige
    • 3. 12:00 Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center, Sensoji Temple
    • 4. 12:40 Lunch @ Ramen Tanaka Soba
    • 5. 14:00 Nezu Shrine, Yanaka Ginza
    • 6. 16:00 Shibuya Robot Cafe, Scramble Crossing
    • 7. 17:10 Dismissal @ Hanzomon Line platform

    What Is a Private Tokyo Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Nezu Shrine, and More The guests were a group visiting from Europe. Since they had suggested in detail the places they wanted to see in advance, I guided them almost exactly according to their wishes. When eating ramen, one of the guests used a fork and spoon they had brought along. At Sensoji Temple, they lit candles in accordance with their faith. Nezu Shrine had few visitors, and they liked it very much. At Pepper Parlor, the English function was slightly broken so conversation was limited and there was mostly just dancing, but since the guests had requested to visit because the museum where one of them currently works has the same thing, they were satisfied. The walk from the Hotel to Nagatacho Station on the Yurakucho Line was quite far, so I thought it was not a very good route. The bus passed alongside Ueno Park, which was a different experience from the subway, so I think that was nice. We spent a relaxed time at Pepper Parlor, so we went considerably over the scheduled time, but it was interesting to hear various stories. At the end, I told them which exit to use when getting off the subway, and we parted on the platform.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayNagatacho~Sakuradamon180JPY
    Section 2SubwayHibiya~Asakusa290JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa~Ueno-hirokoji180JPY
    Section 4BusUeno Matsuzakaya-mae~Nezu Shrine-mae210JPY
    Section 5TrainNippori~Shibuya210JPY
    Total1,070JPY

    Hello!! I’m Takako. Thank you for seeing my page. I’ve been showing guests around Tokyo, Yokohama and Kamakura for over six years. There are various things from historic sites, shrines and temples to cultural spots, good restaurants and anime shops in Japan.
    I love watching sumo wrestling, Japanese traditional sport.
    My favorite place is Tsukiji food market. It’s really exciting and you can enjoy a variety of delicious foods.
    I also like visiting Japanese gardens such as Hama-rikyu Gardens and Rikugien Gardens.
    Please let me know what interests you.
    I would be happy to make a suitable tour for you and help you stay in Japan comfortably.
    Looking forward to meeting you!!

    Jul 21, 2026
    Z222TCshannonr
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    6 hour guided tour of Tokyo
    Our wonderful guide,…

    Jul 9, 2026
    cronima2
    Perfectly guided day
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had an amazing day with…

    Jul 3, 2026
    johnoD792VT
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Lovely Guide!
    Takako was an amazing guide! She gave strong insights on…

    Jul 3, 2026
    71nidhim
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo Tour
    Takako was extremely knowledgeable and showed us all the main…

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Tour Itinerary

    • Hotel Pick up 9:00
    • To Fushimiinari 9:10-9:25
    • At Fushimiinari 9:30-10:20
    • To Uji Byodoin 10:30-11:10
    • At Byodoin 11:15-12:10
    • To Arashiyama 12:15-12:50
    • At Arashiyama 12:55-14:25
    • (Bamboo forest,Nonomiya shrine,Somekobo Yumeyusai)
    • Return to the hotel 14:30-15:00

    Title: What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like for Senior Guests? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Europe. The booking and correspondence were handled by a member of the group who was staying in Tokyo, who let me know in advance that the rest of the group would be joining the tour. The entire itinerary had been arranged in advance by that person. I considered mentioning that some destinations were a bit far and that the autumn foliage had not yet begun, but since the guests wished to follow the planned itinerary, we visited Fushimi Inari, Byodo-in, and Arashiyama as scheduled. One of the guests, though of advanced years, was quite fit and walked well. As the group generally preferred a relaxed pace, it was nice to be able to visit calm and quiet places such as Byodo-in and Yusai-tei in Arashiyama at a leisurely pace. Since the guests planned to attend a tea ceremony the following day, on the way back to the Hotel I took a route that passed by the location so they could confirm where it was.

    Hi, every one. How have you been? I am JGA tour guide Kazu. It is my great pleasure that I can introduce myself here. I am already more than 70 years old, but I believe I am still young both mentally and physically. I like walking with my customers very much. I am from Tokyo, but now

    I live in Kyoto traditional city and an old capital of Japan. I had worked at electric manufacturing company for more than 40 years. While I was working at that company, fortunately I had a lot of chances to visit many foreign countries.

    I lived in Singapore, Malaysia, Poland and Mexico. Also I visited America, Britain, and other countries. Basically I used English to proceed my job there, however I always tried to speak local languages as much as possible. Through staying other countries, I found that there were great differences of the culture or the way of thinking between those countries and Japan. I though I had a valuable experience. After I retired from the company 5 years ago, I began to work as a tour guide although I got the National English tour guide license 7 years ago. Besides English I speak Spanish but I don’t have Spanish tour guide license yet. I belong to the comany JGA and worked around 10 days a month. So far I accompanied with mu customers more than 100 groups. All of my tour was good and lucky as I was always favored with gentle and kind customers.

    My hobby is playing the guitar, dancing and learning foreign languages. I sometimes join the concert by playing the guitar, and it is fun for me. Though I like dancing, I can not dance well. I only enjoy dancing here in Japan.

    About the tour in Japan, I usually take my tourists to the famous spots in Kyoto like Kinkakuji, Kiyomizu dera, Fushimi inari, Gion area,Nishiki market and Arashiyama area. In Arashiyama area we often visit Bamboo forest,Nonomiya shrine,Togetsukyou bridge and Kimono forest. I will cope with my customers demands as much as possible so that I try to visit any places up to your requests.

    I welcome a lot for your coming to Japan. and if possible I would like to help you to visit various kind of spots in Japan especially in Kyoto. JGA is very flexible company so that I have a confidence that you will be satisfied with our attitude and hospitality. I am glad that many of my customers told that it was so nice to travel around Japan. We will and I will expect you come down to Japan any time and we are ready to help your memorable trip in Japan. I can not wait!

    Sep 26, 2025
    kaylah199
    Amazing tour guide
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kazu was extraordinary! He planned a wonderful day for…

    Jul 30, 2024
    Venture826497
    Great time in Kyoto!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    My daughter and I had an amazing time…

    Jul 8, 2024
    233vickies
    6 hour Kyoto tour with Kazu
    Tripadvisor review: Private Kyoto Tour with Government-Licensed Guide and Vehicle (Max 7 persons)
    We had…

    Jun 21, 2024
    Hoc_N
    A fascinating experience in Kyoto we won’t forget
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    The most memorable parts…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • Hotel 9:30 Pass through Suitengu Shrine and Ningyocho, then from Ningyocho Station to Yushima 10:20 Visit Yushima Tenjin, Kanda Myojin, and Yushima Seido on foot.
    • From Ochanomizu Station to Iidabashi Station 11:40 Walk through Kagurazaka, then from Kagurazaka Station to Harajuku Station 12:00. After visiting Meiji Shrine, lunch 12:50.
    • Nijubashimae 14:00 After visiting the Imperial Palace, walk to Tokyo Station. 14:50 After touring inside Tokyo Station, disband at Suitengu 15:30.

    What Is a Full-Day Private Walking Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The weather was fine, making it ideal for exploring each sightseeing spot on foot, though the distances may have been a bit too long, and the guests may have become tired. For meals, I chose a set-meal restaurant in Harajuku that tourists usually do not visit, and the guests seemed delighted, finding it very unusual to observe how the staff worked and interacted. The guests had downloaded SUICA onto their phone, which was convenient, but compared to a physical card, the operation sometimes took extra time depending on the phone model, so they struggled a little. In any case, they were wonderful guests who kept walking steadily throughout the tour.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainNingyocho~Yushima180JPY
    Section 2TrainOchanomizu~Iidabashi150JPY
    Section 3TrainKagurazaka~Harajuku350JPY
    Section 4TrainMeiji-jingumae~Nijubashimae210JPY
    Section 5TrainTokyo~Suitengumae180JPY
    Total1,070JPY

    Name is Sakai Katsuomi, a national certificated interpreter & tour guide. I usually go by Summy. I would like to assist you in making your visit to Japan a wonderful treasure of life.I not only offer tours to famous tourist spots throught Japan but also provide guidance on experiencing traditional Japanese culture. If you interested in Japanese martial arts such as Karate, Judo, Aikido and Kendo, or if you are visiting Japan to train in these disciplines, I can assist you with making apointments at dojyos, interpretating during practice sessions, filming videos and accompany you on your sightseeing adventures in Japan.
    Of course, I can definitely assist you with regular sightseeing. This includes visiting historical and cultural sites, exploring Japanese pop culture and subculture hotospots,and even arranging anime- related activities and character-themed shopping for children. I can customize the initerary according to yourpreferences and requests.

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

    Jul 5, 2026
    amanda_h
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Well worth it!
    We were lucky enough to have Sammy as our…

    May 28, 2026
    Meredith L
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Instagram Highlights Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Sammy was a fabulous local guide!
    What a great…

    May 27, 2026
    Mary_R
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo in a day!
    We enjoyed our tour with Sammy. We had…

  • Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:50 Hotel Indigo Meet – By shuttle car to Gora Station – By cable car to Sounzan – Ropeway – Owakudani – Black eggs – Ropeway – Togendai – 12:00 Pirate ship – Disembark at Hakonemachi Port – Maruyama Bussan – Lunch – Revisit Maruyama Bussan – To the checkpoint entrance – By bus – Get off at Ninotaira – On foot – Stroll around the Hakone Open-Air Museum – By train to Gora Station – Board the shuttle car – Disband at Gora Station – 16:15

    Title: What Is a Family-Friendly Private Hakone Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The tour was arranged for a group visiting Japan, and I adapted the pace so that it worked well for the whole group. At Owakudani, one of the guests enjoyed eating two of the famous black eggs. When we boarded the pirate ship on Lake Ashi, everyone went up onto the deck while I stayed behind to watch the belongings. At a local specialty shop, the group listened intently to the explanation of the traditional puzzle boxes, and each of them purchased a magic box they liked. At the Hakone Open-Air Museum, the group especially enjoyed the various hands-on play areas and moved energetically around the grounds. They became so absorbed in one of the interactive net play areas that it was quite a task to get everyone to move on. The group mentioned that there are Japanese restaurants back in their home region and that they are fond of sushi, and indeed everyone handled chopsticks skillfully. They kindly thanked me for planning a course suited to the whole group.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassOdawara Station~Odawara Station5,000JPY
    Total5,000JPY

    I am Hiroki Morikawa :Hiro:, English guide living with my wife ,just a hop skip and jump from Hakone, Kamakura, Tokyo and the Mt. Fuji.
    I am a friendly grandfather of 4 grandchildren.
    I would love to help you enjoy Japan, using my 3 strong points.
    First: I am used to dealing with any kind of matters. I have experienced various situations in the 40 years of my working life.
    Second: I am good at making a friendly atmosphere between you and local people to help you enjoy Japan. I was raised in western Japan, studied in northern Japan and now live in central Japan. So I know various local cultures and dialects to communicate with a wide variety of people.
    Third: I can explain things from a technical point of view.
    For example, how the Great Buddha was constructed, because I am a master of engineering graduated from Hokkaido University.
    Please enjoy Japan with me. See you soon!!
    dummy

    Jun 30, 2026
    G2432BLtimothyc
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone Full Day Tour with Guide and Vehicle
    6 hour tour of Hakone
    we had a great experience with…

    Jun 25, 2026
    T7734IPbrandons
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    First time in hakone
    Niro was perfect for us. He was…

    Jun 8, 2026
    JasonB6980
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Hiro-san knows Hakone!
    Our guide, Hiro-san, did a wonderful job introducing…

    Jun 7, 2026
    Tourist31988989961
    Tripadvisor review: Kamakura 8 hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide from Tokyo
    Great Day and Tour
    Kamakura was amazing. Enjoyed…

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Hypocenter and Atomic Bomb Dome & Miyajima

    Hiroshima in One Day: Hypocenter and Atomic Bomb Dome & Miyajima

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 meet @ Hotel
    • 10:00-10:10 travel by taxi
    • 10:10-10:25 Hypocenter and Atomic Bomb Dome
    • 10:40-11:25 travel by World Heritage Sea Route
    • 11:25-15:00 Miyajima (Itsukushima Shrine, Daishoin Temple, lunch @ Momo-chan)
    • 15:20-16:05 travel by World Heritage Sea Route
    • 16:05-17:00 Peace Park, Peace Memorial Museum
    • 17:00 tour ends @ inside the Peace Memorial Museum

    What Is a Private Hiroshima and Miyajima Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe. Since neither of them cared for seafood, I asked what they would like to eat other than the local specialties of oysters and conger eel, and they said they wanted to try okonomiyaki. We ate at a local okonomiyaki restaurant, and they said it was delicious, which put me at ease. At Daishoin Temple there is a pitch-dark corridor beneath the temple that is as frightening as a haunted house, but one of the guests said it was not scary at all. The guests wanted to understand the reality of the atomic bombing, so we visited the hypocenter, the Atomic Bomb Memorial Mound, and other sites, and we talked about various world affairs. Four days earlier, Nihon Hidankyo had received the Nobel Peace Prize, and flowers offered by the former prime minister and by Hidankyo had been placed there. As a guide, I was glad that it had become an environment in which Hiroshima's message is easier to convey.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherPeace Park~Miyajima2,200JPY
    Total2,200JPY

    As a Hiroshima government-certified English-speaking guide, I’ve led over 160 heartfelt tours for guests from around the world. I craft each experience with care, blending history, humor, and emotional resonance to help you connect deeply with this beautiful city and its stories. I love sharing insights about Hiroshima and Japan, but I also enjoy chatting with my guests as if we were friends, learning about each other along the way and creating meaningful moments together. Every tour becomes a unique exchange, shaped by the people I meet. I look forward to welcoming you and guiding you in Hiroshima.

    Sep 24, 2025
    Paige_M
    Lovely and Educational Tour of Hiroshima
    Viator review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Our guide for this…

    May 8, 2025
    Smatty68
    Tomoyo was a star guide
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    We really enjoyed our…

    Apr 29, 2025
    Josh_H
    Amazing experience and very grateful for my tour guide Tomoyo
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed…

    Apr 29, 2025
    Chloe_O
    The best day in Japan with Tomoyo!
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Tomoyo was…

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Candeo Hotels Tokyo Roppongi⇒9:30 Tsukiji (Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple, Outer Market, Namiyoke Shrine)⇒11:30 Asakusa (Boat Landing, Sensoji Temple, Don Quijote)⇒14:00 Candeo Hotels Tokyo Roppongi

    Tsukiji and Asakusa Private Tour in Tokyo: A Licensed Guide's Report I guided a group visiting Japan. At Tsukiji and Asakusa, they were able to experience Japan's unique culture and food traditions, including offering incense, drawing omikuji fortunes, using the water purification basin, and shopping, and I believe they thoroughly enjoyed the day. They were especially amazed by the size of the grapes, giving high praise and saying that Japanese grapes were wonderfully juicy. At Don Quijote in Asakusa, we had originally planned only to stop by briefly, but the group became absorbed in cosmetics and snacks, which took up a lot of time. In order to make it in time for the cruise ship departure, we were unable to visit Omoide Yokocho in Shinjuku or Takeshita Street in Harajuku. We only visited two places, so I wonder whether the content was as full as it could have been. The photo was taken at the end of the tour, and it was a moment when I felt proud as a Japanese person to hear everyone share their impressions of the wonderful aspects of Japan. Even though I had not asked, the guests told me they would write a review, so I believe they were satisfied. The number of guests was listed as 5 adults, but the group included several younger members (aged 12 to 19). It seems that anyone aged 12 or older is set as an adult on the booking screen. Since this was my first guiding assignment with [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/), learning this was a valuable experience.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayRoppongi~Tsukiji178JPY
    Section 2SubwayTsukiji~Asakusa209JPY
    Section 3SubwayTawaramachi~Roppongi209JPY
    Total596JPY

    Nice to meet you. I am delighted to introduce myself. My nickname is Danda. I live in Saitama prefecture next to Tokyo, but I was brought up in Kanazawa, one of the most popular tourist destinations in Japan. My favorite things are bonsai and hiking. Also, I have been a big fun of history and sumo since my childhood. As for the guide, I have enjoyed making communication with foreign visitors since 2019. I have taken more than 30 private groups to not only major scenic spots but also their favorite places such as tea ceremony, maid cafe, sumo tournament, bonsai village, fire ritual and so on. I can arrange the original tour based on your requests and curiosity. It will be only for you. I look forward to meeting you soon. Thank you.

    Apr 21, 2026
    Sabrina_F
    Viator review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Balade riche en découvertes
    Nous avons passé un super moment avec Danda.…

    Apr 14, 2026
    davidjonesresponseen
    Viator review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Walking tour with Danda in Tokyo
    Excellent walking tour, we followed our…

    Apr 10, 2026
    Anna_O
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour with great guide
    Excellent tour with a very good guide…

    Mar 25, 2026
    Nahmjee_L
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour guide and experience.
    Danda was great with my family. He…

  • Nara in One Day: JR Nara Station & Yoshikien Garden

    Nara in One Day: JR Nara Station & Yoshikien Garden

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 JR Nara Station (Start of Tour)
    • Since the guest was almost 20 minutes late, the actual start was 10:20
    • walk 15 minutes
    • 10:40-11:40 Kofukuji Temple→Ukimido Hall
    • walk 15 minutes
    • 12:10-40 Kasuga-taisha Shrine →Base of Mt. Wakakusa
    • walk 15 minutes
    • 13:00-13:30 Todaiji's Nigatsudo Hall
    • walk 5 minutes
    • 13:40 Todaiji's Shoro Bell Tower
    • walk 5 minutes
    • 14:00-30 Todaiji's Great Buddha Hall
    • walk 5 minutes
    • 14:40 Todaiji's Nandaimon (South Great Gate)
    • walk 5 minutes
    • 15:00-15:30 Yoshikien Garden
    • taxi
    • 16:00 back at JR Nara Station (End of Tour)

    Can You Do a Private Day Tour of Nara's Temples? A Licensed Guide's Report Because this booking came in just two days before the tour, there was not enough time for advance coordination, and the guest arrived nearly 20 minutes late, so the start was also delayed. I had been informed in advance that "I can walk as much as needed, but would like to avoid long uphill climbs," but I could not tell exactly how much counted as "long." It was only about halfway through the tour that I understood the guest wished to avoid steep slopes and stairs because they place too much strain on the heart. The guest managed to climb the long, steep staircase from Kasuga Taisha down to the base of Wakakusayama, but upon seeing the stairs of Nigatsudo, the guest decided not to continue up. Even so, in the end the guest told me they had "enjoyed it very much." If the route had been "JR Nara (taxi) → Nigatsudo → the bell tower → the Great Buddha Hall → Nandaimon → Kasuga Taisha," the uphill burden could have been reduced much further. Detailed advance information really is important.

    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.

    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…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Tsukiji & Asakusa

    Tokyo in One Day: Tsukiji & Asakusa

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet up (Blossom Hibiya)
    • 9:30 Tsukiji
    • 11:00 Sakuradamon, Nijubashi
    • 11:45 Meiji Shrine
    • 13:15 Asakusa
    •    Lunch
    • 15:15 Disband @ Kappabashi Kitchenware Town

    What Is a Private Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Meiji Shrine, Asakusa, and Kappabashi The guests were a group visiting from North America. Both of them seemed to have studied Japanese culture and history very thoroughly in advance, and they listened to my explanations with great enthusiasm. One of the guests had read books on history and even knew the names of several Sengoku-era warlords. At Meiji Shrine, one of the guests said they felt a strong spiritual power there. Meiji Shrine seems to be one of the most well-known power spots in Tokyo. Since the guests planned to visit Nikko on their own at a later date, I had recommended taking the Tobu Railway during our earlier exchanges, and during the tour I showed them the boarding area in Asakusa. The guests wanted to buy a kitchen knife, so I took them to Kappabashi Kitchen Town, explained how to get back, and said goodbye.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassShimbashi~Tsukiji600JPY
    Section 2SubwayShintomicho~Sakuradamon0JPY
    Section 3SubwayNijubashi~Meiji-jingumae0JPY
    Section 4SubwayMeiji-jingumae~Asakusa0JPY
    Total600JPY

    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.

    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…