Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Hotel – 11:00 Fukagawa Fudodo – 11:45 Tomioka Hachimangu Shrine – 12:30 East Gardens of the Imperial Palace – 13:30 Harajuku Takeshita Street – 14:00 Disband at Meiji-jingumae

    What Can You See on a Private Half-Day Tour of Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report on Goma Fire Ritual, Tomioka Hachimangu, and Takeshita Street The guests were visitors currently based in North America. They spent about a week traveling around Osaka, Kyoto, and Nara, and planned to stay in Tokyo for the following few days. Since they had already visited many shrines and temples, they were not particularly interested in places like Meiji Shrine or Sensoji Temple, but when I explained the Shingon Esoteric Buddhist goma fire ritual, they said they would very much like to see it. While surprised by the thunderous sound of the taiko drums and conch shells, they thoroughly enjoyed this rare experience. At the nearby Tomioka Hachimangu Shrine, they experienced a wedding photo session and a Sunday flea market. Combined with Takeshita Street, where they were amazed by the many animal cafes, they spent an extraordinary half-day. Although it was a little early, since one of the guests was tired and wished to finish at a place where they could rest, we ended the tour.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusToei Ryogoku Station~Monzen-Nakacho210JPY
    Section 2SubwayMonzen-Nakacho~Otemachi178JPY
    Section 3SubwayOtemachi~Meiji-jingumae209JPY
    Total597JPY

    Welcome to Japan. My name is Michio, your tour guide in Tokyo and Japan. I was born and grown up in Tokyo, and still living in western suburb of Tokyo with my wife, except for 10 years outside of Japan travelling and living in 60 countries. So I might have visited your country and still remember a few words.
    Japan has unique history, nature and culture, and there are plenty of secrets and wonders behind them such as food culture, Zen and Ninja.
    So please explore and discover the hidden and most beautiful part of Japan together. Let’s experience!

    Oct 25, 2025
    Carla_G
    Our 4-hour Tokyo walking…
    Viator review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our 4-hour Tokyo walking tour was fantastic! Michio…

    Oct 24, 2025
    410trishab
    ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 10/10 — Outstanding Tour with Michio and Nobuhiko!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Full Day Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle from…

    Oct 11, 2025
    GoPlaces52694049181
    We enjoyed our time in Tokyo with Michio our tour guide.
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We…

    Oct 10, 2025
    PiscesV
    Sushi for breakfast at 630am? Yes please!!
    Tripadvisor review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide…

  • Aomori: Onaka Apple Center & Sannai Maruyama Archeological site dept

    Aomori: Onaka Apple Center & Sannai Maruyama Archeological site dept

    Tour Itinerary

    • 【29th 0f November】
    • 10:00 At the Hotel JAL City Aomori to the Seiryuji Temple by taxi.
    • 10:10 The Onaka Apple Center
    • 10:45 Seiryu-ji Temple arr. (Admission fee: 400 yen/one-person)
    • *Goshuin Stamp*
    • 11:45 Seiryuji Temple dept. By taxi
    • 12:00 Warrase Museum arr. (Admission fee: 620 yen/one-person)
    • Workshop: Nebuta Festival drum hitting and dancing experience.      
    • 13:00 Lunch @Chinese Restaurant Kichunn
    • 14:30 Sannai Maruyama Archeological site -the Unesco World Cultural Heritage Site-  (Admission fee: 410 yen/one-person)
    • 15:30 Sannai Maruyama Archeological site dept. By taxi
    • 16:00 Hotel JAL City Aomori arr.
    •      ———————————————————————————————-
    • Sayounara (Good By)

    What Is a Private Aomori City Tour Like for Overseas Guests? A Licensed Guide's Report [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide accompanied a group visiting from Oceania on a private tour of Aomori City. All members of the group were born in the Year of the Dragon. They were very familiar with Japan, and one of the guests, who had studied Japanese culture at a university in Oceania, spoke Japanese very well. Their itinerary began on November 15 and included Wakkanai, Sapporo, and Hakodate, then Aomori by rail and ferry, followed by Akita, Nagano, Osaka, Kyoto, and other destinations, before returning home from Tokyo in December. The guests loved Japanese food and ate natto almost every day. At lunch, seeing the glistening rice, one of them said, "In Oceania we eat Japanese-grown rice, but this is the first time I've seen rice this shiny!" It was freshly harvested new-crop rice from around October. While reading the description on the box of soba to take home as a souvenir, one of the guests asked, "What does 'koshi ga aru' mean?" Koshi ga aru, koshi ga tsuyoi… hmm, a bit firm? A quick search turned up "firm, chewy texture, al dente," and they understood. When I asked which historical era of Japan they liked, one replied, "The Meiji era. In Japanese literature, I read Natsume Soseki's 'Kokoro' in Japanese." They were collectors of goshuin (temple seals), and at Saishoin and Seiryuji Temple they chose the goshuin of Dainichi Nyorai. At the Hirosaki Ninja House, the curator Mr. Sato showed us how enemies (such as Iga ninja) were caught in pitfalls inside the house, and pointed out the beams on the ceiling that still bear marks from hoisting up captured enemies. He also taught us how to throw the "hand-blade tipped with aconite" that the Ainu used when catching bears. Early in the morning at Seiryuji Temple, with snow falling, I recited the "Jukku Kannongyo" sutra I had brought in the empty main hall, and the guests seemed moved, though with wry smiles. In Hirosaki, Japan's largest apple-producing area, you can eat apple pies with 50 different flavors at 50 different shops! One of the guests said, "I really want to try that!" They were delighted to eat apple pie at "Kauhiiya Buruman," which faces the outer moat of Hirosaki Castle. To the guest fluent in Japanese I gave "The Hirosaki Ninja Story" (a picture book introducing representative ninja), and to all the guests I gave "Kogin-zashi coasters with an apple pattern" and "a dozen-page introduction to Kogin-zashi written in both Japanese and English." One of the guests said that they could not understand at all "the conversation between me and the taxi driver" (Tsugaru dialect, a Japanese regional dialect they were hearing for the first time). That's only natural! Finally, when I asked why they had gone to Wakkanai, one of the guests said, "I'm very interested in the Ainu and other northern peoples. Do Ainu live in Aomori?" They used to live here. Remains of Ainu settlements have been found near Utetsu on the Tsugaru Peninsula and near Sai Village on the Shimokita Peninsula. Amid the snow, the guests headed to their next destination, Akita, on the JR "Resort Shirakami" train.

    My name is Tomohiko Kudo.
    I live in Aomori city.
    I already visited more than 30 nations so far.
    After official retirement from the public officer, I could have the Japanese Government Licensed Guide Certificate and am nowadays very pleased to guide overseas tourists all over the world.
    Did you know that the Fuji apple is not from Mt.Fuji…but is actually from Aomori Prefecture’ Fujisaki town. Aomori is proud of the biggest apple product in
    Japan. We provide 40 apple-pie restaurants to guests.
    Let’s enjoy real Japanese culture and history with me. I would enjoy with you real Samuri history, Kimono culture, local traditional festivals, castle,
    Japanese garden, temple, shrine, Japanese tea ceremony, food and Sake.
    I often go to the local sea food and vegetable markets and eat fresh foods and would love to show you some secret, hidden restaurants that only Aomori locals know about – let’s go on an adventure together.
    If you like sushi and fresh seafood, let me introduce to Nokkedon ?
    What is it? Come to Aomori and find out! I am waiting for you.

    Jun 2, 2025
    413maryannb
    Tomohiko organized our day beautifully! The car was immaculate, the driver skilled. We thoroughly enjoyed our day!
    Tripadvisor review: Aomori Full-Day…

    Apr 30, 2025
    Jacqueline_F
    Great Guide, great tour
    Viator review: Aomori Full-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    We experienced the wonderful sites of Aomori which…

    Dec 30, 2024
    Scenic33296385055
    Warm and professional guide
    Tripadvisor review: Aomori Full-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    Mr. Kudo-san is very professional, meticulate and kind…

    Aug 3, 2024
    Monika R
    Fun and informative tour – great tour guide!
    Tripadvisor review: Aomori Full-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    We were 3…

  • Osaka in Half a Day: Osaka Castle and stay there & Dotonbori

    Osaka in Half a Day: Osaka Castle and stay there & Dotonbori

    Tour Itinerary

    • 13:30 Pick up at Hotel
    • 13:30-16:30 Move to Osaka Castle and stay there.
    • 16:30-18:30 Move to Shinsekai and Tsutenkaku Tower
    • 18:30-19:30 Dotonbori
    • 19:30 End of the tour

    What Is a Private Osaka Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Osaka Castle, Tsutenkaku, and Dotonbori I guided the group around Osaka. They seemed to have played until late at Universal Studios Japan the day before. Even so, they energetically went to Osaka Castle, and since one of them had a school assignment to write about Osaka Castle, they listened carefully to the history I shared. We had planned to visit Shitennoji Temple, but because the Japanese garden could not be seen after 4:30, we decided to go straight to Tsutenkaku. At Osaka Castle, we were able to enter right away with an e-ticket, so the guests bought their Tsutenkaku tickets expecting the same, only to find out there was a 40-minute wait. It took quite a bit of time here, but since I wanted to guide them as far as Dotonbori, we waited, prepared to run late. In reality the wait was about 30 minutes, but it took even longer because they also did the Tsutenkaku slider. Still, the night view from Tsutenkaku was wonderful. The road to Dotonbori was beautifully lit up, and since they planned to enjoy the area a bit before heading back, I introduced several ramen shops and we parted ways in front of Kinryu Ramen. I also told them the way back to Universal Studios with as few transfers as possible, though I am a little worried about whether they made it back safely. It took a lot of time, but they truly enjoyed sightseeing in Osaka, so I enjoyed it too.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainUniversal City~Osaka Castle Park210JPY
    Section 2SubwayTanimachi 4-chome~Ebisucho240JPY
    Section 3SubwayEbisucho~Namba190JPY
    Total640JPY

    Hi! I’m an official English guide in Wakayama prefecture. I’m also a national guide as well. I’d like to expand my guide area to help tourists.
    The town of Osaka offers a different atmosphere than Tokyo. I like both exciting Osaka and nature-filled Wakayama Prefecture.
    If you stay in Osaka for 3 days, you can go to Koyasan for one day, or even for a day trip, so I recommend sightseeing at Koyasan.
    If you are tired of the hustle and bustle of the big city, the nature of Koyasan will relax you.
    I will introduce you to the unique culture, history and must-see sights.

    Aug 17, 2026
    yasmintX6792FN
    Great trip
    Tripadvisor review: Mt. Koya Sacred Sites Half-Day Tour with Licensed Guide
    It was a great time and very interesting…

    Jun 23, 2026
    Shelley_E
    Viator review: Osaka 6hr Private Walking Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    There is much to do in…
    There is much to…

    May 28, 2026
    Duncan_R
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A Great Tour of Kyoto
    The tour was both very informative and…

    May 28, 2026
    ignaciosilenzi
    Tripadvisor review: Mt. Koya Sacred Full-Day Private Tour (Osaka departure) with Licensed Guide
    Amazing day in Koyasan with Miyuki
    Miyuki was…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Kinkakuji & Senkoji

    Kyoto in One Day: Kinkakuji & Senkoji

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:30 Hotel Kiyomizu Kyoto
    • 10:10 Kinkakuji (500) by taxi
    • 11:10 Ryoanji (600) by taxi
    • 12:30 Gioji (300) by taxi
    • Lunch skipped due to too many people
    • 13:20 Bamboo grove by walking
    • 13:40 Tenryuji (500+300) by walking
    • 14:30 Togetsukyo by walking
    • 14:50 Senkoji by walking
    • 15:30 End of the tour

    What Is a Private Kyoto Autumn Foliage Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The tour was booked for two but the group turned out to be a bit larger, and there were no particular problems. The guests were visitors from Europe. They were traveling around the world as a group, and they said Japan was the country they most wanted to visit. One of the guests had a Nikon camera, so I did not take many photos myself. I had planned for us to have lunch around Gioji, but every place was full with people waiting, so we decided to skip lunch. Since this gave us extra time, I guided them to Senkoji Temple across the Oi River. The guests were remarkably strong walkers. As they had contacted me in advance to say they would be doing another tour with a [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide the next day, after finishing I reported to the guide who would be leading that tour. One of the guests had experience in long-distance running but avoided certain foods and drinks. Today, especially in the morning, the weather was perfectly clear, and the autumn foliage, which had finally reached its peak, was beautiful. After Senkoji Temple, we took a taxi back to the downtown area of Shijo and parted ways there.

    I’m Ryoichi Kazuma and my nickname is “Kazz”. I live in Kyotanabe city next to Kyoto city. I want guests to enjoy Kyoto by seeing and experiencing not only from outside but also from inside. I offer various information from daily matters to traditional cultures. Most destinations in Kyoto are located on the eastern side or the western side. As I want to guide guests to as many destinations as possible, I make an efficient itinerary and recommend a taxi use to save time. Additionally, I take pictures at various spots and finally share the link to my storage. By doing so, guests can download their favorite pictures from my storage. Please enjoy Kyoto night and day!

    Sep 25, 2026
    Marvin_F
    Kazz is an outstanding…
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Kazz is an outstanding experiencedand friendly…

    Sep 21, 2026
    Laura_K
    Day in Kyoto with Kazz
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Kazz was an amazing…

    Aug 27, 2026
    M6034YWthomasm
    Worth it
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    The day went by so quickly, a…

    Aug 10, 2026
    Sez042
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Awesome experience
    Tour guide Kazz was great. Very informative and showed…

  • Himeji Castle & Koko-en in 1 Day Tour

    Himeji Castle & Koko-en in 1 Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. Meet at 10:00 @ In front of Himeji Station Central Ticket Gate
    • 2. 10:05 @ Castle View
    • 3. 10:30 @ Himeji Castle
    • 4. Reconvene at 13:25 @ Himeji Station North Exit
    • 5. 14:40 @ Shoshazan Engyoji Temple (Maniden Hall, Daikodo Hall, Jogyodo Hall, Jikido Hall)
    • 6. Disband at 17:00 @ Shinki Bus Himeji Station Front Bus Stop

    Title: What Is a Private Guided Tour of Himeji Castle and Engyoji Temple Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guests were the group visiting Japan for the first time from North America and Europe. The guests wished to sightsee at Himeji Castle, then have some free time to stroll around the shopping street, and after regrouping, visit Engyoji Temple on Mount Shosha. Based on their wishes, I guided them through these sites. While explaining the overview of Himeji Castle at Castle View, I learned that one of the guests had difficulty with their feet. I explained that the interior of the main keep of Himeji Castle has a seven-story structure with only stairs, but they said it would be fine as they would proceed slowly. Since this day was a Sunday, Himeji Castle was crowded, but we were able to tour it safely, after which the guests took some free time. Next, we regrouped at the north exit of Himeji Station, purchased round-trip discount tickets for the bus and ropeway at the Shinki Bus Center, and headed to Engyoji Temple on Mount Shosha. As we approached the ropeway station, the bus could not move forward due to traffic congestion. For this reason, we got off the bus and walked to the ropeway station. The cause of the congestion was the very large number of cars heading to Engyoji Temple, waiting for parking spaces. Because it was a Sunday with good weather and beautiful autumn foliage, many people were visiting Engyoji. There was a long line for the ropeway as well, and extra services were being operated. This was the first time I had seen Engyoji so crowded. Although one of the guests skipped some of the Engyoji facilities, they enjoyed the beautiful autumn leaves and ginkgo trees. Because Engyoji was extremely crowded, the sightseeing took longer, but I believe the guests were satisfied with the tour.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Bus[Shinki Bus Himeji Station Front] Station~[Shinki Bus Shosha] Station320JPY
    Section 2Bus[Engyoji Microbus Round Trip (Ropeway Sannin Station near Shinnojo~below Maniden Hall)]500JPY
    Section 3Bus[Shinki Bus Shosha] Station~[Shinki Bus Himeji Station Front] Station320JPY
    Total1,140JPY

    Hello, my name is Norio Oki, a Government-Certified Tour Guide in Japan.
    I specialize in guiding visitors through the beautiful and historic regions of Himeji and Kobe.

    My expertise includes Japanese history, traditional culture, castles, and sake. I enjoy sharing not only facts, but also the stories and spirit behind each place.

    In Himeji, I offer guided tours of Himeji Castle, Kokoen Garden, Shoshazan Engyoji Temple, and Nadagiku Sake Brewery.
    In Kobe, I guide guests through the Nada Sake Breweries area, Mt. Rokko, Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden, Harborland, Meriken Park, the Kitano District, Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, and the lively Motomachi Shopping Street.

    Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or local experiences, I will create a personalized tour tailored to your interests.

    If you’re planning to visit Himeji or Kobe, I would be delighted to be your guide.
    I look forward to meeting you soon!

    Sep 29, 2026
    X
    X1794ZGstevew
    Kobe 4hr guided tour
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Norio pickup us up ontime &…

    Sep 17, 2026
    jacquelinecI8863UY
    No rush beautiful walking tour.
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We had a wonderful time. Norio…

    Sep 15, 2026
    niy679
    Kobe day trip
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We had an amazing tour with Norio. He…

    Jul 7, 2026
    77guye
    The best way to experience Himeji Castle
    Tripadvisor review: Himeji Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    What a great way to…

  • Tokyo: Toyosu Market & Tsukiji Market

    Tokyo: Toyosu Market & Tsukiji Market

    Tour Itinerary

    • 5:00 Meet at Tokyo Edition Toranomon
    • 5:30 Toyosu Market
    •   Tuna auction, intermediate wholesale market
    • 7:10 Tsukiji Market
    • 8:00 End at Kamezushi

    Tokyo Private Tour Report: What Can You See on a One-Day Guided Tour of Tokyo? The guests were visiting from North America. They had traveled through Asia before including five days in Tokyo, and were returning home this evening. Since they lived in a place I am very fond of, we hit it off right away. One of the guests took video with great interest, and was impressed to see fish auctioned off in just six seconds each. They found the coffee at a local café delicious, and we enjoyed casual local conversation with the owner, including stories about the renowned conductor Seiji Ozawa, who had been a regular there. They were very grateful that the final day of their trip turned out to be such a memorable one.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusToyosu~Tsukiji Rokuchome220JPY
    Total220JPY

    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

    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.…

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Hiroshima Station & Peace Memorial Museum

    Hiroshima in One Day: Hiroshima Station & Peace Memorial Museum

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Meet at Hotel
    • 8:30 Hiroshima Station
    • 9:30 Miyajima, Itsukushima Shrine, Great Torii Gate, Momijidani Park, Shopping Street
    • 11:40 Lunch
    • 13:10 Miyajimaguchi
    • 13:55 Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park
    • 14:20 Peace Memorial Museum
    • 15:00 Tour ends

    Title: What's a Private Day Tour of Miyajima and Hiroshima Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from South America. When we met in the morning, I asked whether they would prefer to visit Miyajima at high tide or low tide, and since they preferred high tide, we started the tour from Miyajima. Although it was cold in the morning, it gradually warmed up, and in the pleasant weather they seemed to enjoy the scenery of Miyajima and the autumn foliage. Since it was the perfect season for autumn leaves, I also took them to Momijidani (Maple Valley). One of the guests enjoyed photography, and they took many photos in various spots and had a wonderful time. At the Peace Memorial Park, they spoke about peace and about the atomic bombing, and I felt that they held thoughts on these matters from many different perspectives. They expressed gratitude that the atomic bombing of Hiroshima had become an opportunity for people around the world to think deeply about the possession of nuclear weapons. Since they were staying in Hiroshima for a few more days, I recommended some sightseeing spots and restaurants before ending the tour.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHiroshima Station~Miyajima420JPY
    Section 2FerryMiyajimaguchi~Miyajima200JPY
    Section 3FerryMiyajima~Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park1,100JPY
    Total1,720JPY

    Hi there! I’m Minori, your local guide in Hiroshima.

    I’ve called Hiroshima home for most of my life, and I have been a guide since 2019. My tours are centered on flexibility; I love listening closely to your interests to craft a personalized, high-quality experience just for you.

    My life has been a journey of deep exploration, as I have a passion for fully immersing myself in whatever sparks my curiosity. Whether it is graduating from a kimono-making school, building a professional career in accounting, or refining my skills in nail art and makeup, I have always committed myself wholeheartedly to mastering new fields. I am also a dedicated language learner, with experience in English, Spanish, and Russian. I love weaving these diverse professional and personal experiences into our tours to offer you a unique and memorable time. I truly look forward to meeting you in Hiroshima!

    Sep 25, 2026
    849sandrac
    Miyajima Island Afternoons
    Tripadvisor review: Miyajima Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We were a group of 3 and had…

    Sep 24, 2026
    778eliay
    Uma descoberta, uma experiência inesquecível de Hiroshima
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    A guia…

    Sep 20, 2026
    texas925
    Great tour & experience!
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    This was such an amazing…

    Sep 5, 2026
    Coastal42134850983
    Day tour of Hiroshima and Miyajima
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Minori was a…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Shibuya Scramble Crossing

    Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Shibuya Scramble Crossing

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at the Hotel lobby. Discuss the itinerary and depart.
    • 10:30-11:20 Guide through the Imperial Palace Plaza, the Main Gate, and Nijubashi Bridge.
    • 12:00-13:20 Observation deck at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government South Tower.
    • 13:45-14:30 Lunch (Katsura Ramen Shinjuku Sanchome branch)
    • 14:45-15:40 Visit Meiji Shrine.
    • 15:50-16:30 Visit the Shibuya Scramble Crossing.
    • 16:30 Say goodbye at the Ginza Line Shibuya Station platform and conclude the work.

    What Is a Private Tokyo Sightseeing Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group of visitors from North America. They arrived in Tokyo after a group trip that included a visit to Asia. This day was a free day for them, so they booked a tour, while ten other members of their larger group went to Mount Fuji. This group, however, lived in a region with many high mountains that they see all the time, so they preferred to skip Mount Fuji and explore Tokyo instead, which is why they booked a [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) tour. Since the itinerary had been finalized in advance through email, we reconfirmed it before setting out. Everyone walked with a very steady step, and they were a cheerful and lively group, which made for an enjoyable outing. For lunch they said something light would be fine, so we decided on ramen. I explained the various types of broth, and they preferred a tonkotsu (pork bone) based broth, so we went to a ramen restaurant. Everyone finished their bowls completely and were delighted, saying it was "very delicious." One thing that felt a little different from the usual tour was how much they enjoyed the observation deck at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building. Looking out at the buildings and parks below, they asked detailed questions like "What is that?" and I answered each one carefully, and they commented that it was "a very fun place." I had intended to see them off at their hotel in Tsukiji, but at Shibuya Station on the Ginza Line they said, "It's fine, we can get back on our own. We've already gone well over six hours, so we can part ways here. We are grateful for all the rich information you shared with us about Japan." With those words, we parted.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayHigashi-Ginza~Nijubashimae600JPY
    Section 2SubwayNijubashimae~Shinjuku0JPY
    Section 3SubwayShinjuku~Shinjuku-sanchome0JPY
    Section 4SubwayShinjuku-sanchome~Meiji-jingumae0JPY
    Section 5TrainHarajuku~Shibuya150JPY
    Total750JPY

    I acquired national guide license in 2014, and I have been doing guide work full fledged since 2016. In my career before starting guide work, I was a business man and made more than 1,000 business trips both abroad and in Japan, and that experience is my foundation as a guide because I came to know so many places both abroad and in Japan. I have been taking care of both group and individual tourists, and the number of foreign guests I have taken care is close to 2,500 so far. I am based in Tokyo, but I can cover guide work in many prefectures throughout Japan. When I take care of foreign guests, my major concern is to listen attentively to them, find out what they want to know and do in Japan, and give them appropriate guiding in accordance with what I heard from my guests. I would like to provide tailor made tour as much as possible for every precious guest who kindly chose Japan as the tour destination.

    Aug 1, 2025
    8
    898kendrap
    Great first day in Tokyo!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Asai, our tour guide, made our…

    Jul 14, 2025
    Anette_V
    Perfect
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our guide Minoru Asai was very friendly and knowledgeable about culture,…

    Jun 30, 2025
    liammL2246HL
    Amazing experience
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had an amazing private tour with Minoru Asai! We…

    Jun 26, 2025
    394milesd
    Excellent guide making an excellent day in Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A perfect day, tailored…

  • Tokyo: Meiji Shrine & Harajuku and Omotesando Street

    Tokyo: Meiji Shrine & Harajuku and Omotesando Street

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:30 Meet at Hotel lobby, discuss and confirm the itinerary, then depart.
    • 09:50 -11:15 Visit Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple and tour the Tsukiji Outer Market.
    • 11:35-12:15 Visit the Imperial Palace Plaza, the Imperial Palace Main Gate, and Nijubashi Bridge.
    • 12:25-13:10 Visit Meiji Shrine.
    • 13:10-13:50 Stroll through Harajuku and Omotesando Street.
    • 13:50-14:50 Lunch at TGI Fridays.
    • 15:40 Escort to the Yayoi Kusama Museum and conclude the service.

    What Is a Private Tokyo Day Tour Like With a Licensed Guide? A Guide's Report The tour was booked through a travel agency in North America that was looking after the guests, and instructions for the day's itinerary had come from that agency. When I met the guests at the hotel, I asked whether the proposed itinerary was acceptable and how many days they would be staying in Tokyo. They said, "We are staying five nights in Tokyo. We leave today's destinations up to you." I then asked how they planned to spend the remaining three days, and learned that the local agency had already proposed a full three-day plan. We looked at it together on a smartphone and exchanged opinions, after which the guests agreed to the itinerary above and we set off. Incidentally, the local agency had informed me in advance that three tickets to the Yayoi Kusama Museum had been purchased, but when I checked with the guests, there were only two. With that, I planned to arrive before the museum's 4:00 p.m. reservation, wait for the guests to view the interior and come out, and then see them off to their hotel in Ginza. However, in front of the Yayoi Kusama Museum, the guests said, "We'll catch a taxi and make our own way back, so it's fine to part here. We had a wonderful time today. Thank you," and so we parted ways. The guests were visitors from North America.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShimbashi~Tsukiji600JPY
    Section 2SubwayTsukiji~Hibiya0JPY
    Section 3SubwayNijubashimae~Meiji-jingumae0JPY
    Section 4SubwayMeiji-jingumae~Waseda0JPY
    Total600JPY

    I acquired national guide license in 2014, and I have been doing guide work full fledged since 2016. In my career before starting guide work, I was a business man and made more than 1,000 business trips both abroad and in Japan, and that experience is my foundation as a guide because I came to know so many places both abroad and in Japan. I have been taking care of both group and individual tourists, and the number of foreign guests I have taken care is close to 2,500 so far. I am based in Tokyo, but I can cover guide work in many prefectures throughout Japan. When I take care of foreign guests, my major concern is to listen attentively to them, find out what they want to know and do in Japan, and give them appropriate guiding in accordance with what I heard from my guests. I would like to provide tailor made tour as much as possible for every precious guest who kindly chose Japan as the tour destination.

    Aug 1, 2025
    8
    898kendrap
    Great first day in Tokyo!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Asai, our tour guide, made our…

    Jul 14, 2025
    Anette_V
    Perfect
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our guide Minoru Asai was very friendly and knowledgeable about culture,…

    Jun 30, 2025
    liammL2246HL
    Amazing experience
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had an amazing private tour with Minoru Asai! We…

    Jun 26, 2025
    394milesd
    Excellent guide making an excellent day in Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A perfect day, tailored…

  • Tokyo in One Day: East Gardens & Odaiba

    Tokyo in One Day: East Gardens & Odaiba

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Hotel
    • 9:40  East Gardens
    • 11:10 Nezu Shrine
    • 12:30 Sensoji Temple
    • 14:42 Odaiba
    • 15:00 Dismissal

    Title: What's a Full-Day Private Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, the East Gardens, and Odaiba The guests were visitors from North America. They had come from another destination in Asia, and were a cheerful and friendly group who told me they had thoroughly enjoyed Japanese cuisine on a food tour the previous day. Since that food tour had ended in Akihabara, they requested that we drop Akihabara from the originally planned course and add Senso-ji Temple, so we started the tour with those changes. When I showed them a map where the locations were split neatly between north and south, they laughed heartily. I told them it would be a slightly busy day, and off we went. The East Gardens were beautifully colored with autumn foliage, and they were delighted. They were moved by the torii gate at Nezu Shrine, the sea views at Odaiba, and the Rainbow Bridge, saying that because they live somewhere without the sea, the majestic scenery was very impressive. At the end, we timed our visit to catch the life-sized Gundam moving for just one minute, which they filmed and seemed very satisfied with. They told me they were happy to have reached the places they wanted to see, were moved by the beautiful scenery, and found the history very interesting. They said that although they were returning home the next day, they would absolutely love to come back again and again, which made me very happy. After the tour, they wanted to go to the Starbucks Roastery in Nakameguro, so I gave them a printout of the subway and area map before we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShiba Park~Otemachi180JPY
    Section 2SubwayOtemachi~Nezu180JPY
    Section 3SubwayNezu~Asakusa290JPY
    Section 4SubwayAsakusa~Shimbashi210JPY
    Section 5TrainShimbashi~Daiba330JPY
    Total1,190JPY

    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.

    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…