Category: Uncategorized

  • Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour

    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour

    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1030 Meet at Hotel Brighton
    • 1100 Shitennoji Temple
    • 1230 Kuromon Market
    • 1330 Namba – Dotonbori
    • 1230 Disband at Dotonbori Botejyu

    Title: What Is a Private Osaka Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Shitennoji, Kuromon Market, and Dotonbori The guests were a group visiting from Europe. One member of the group had recently retired and had a strong interest in Japan, being quite knowledgeable about the country. In our initial exchanges, the guests did not express much interest in temples and shrines, but after I guided them around Shitennoji Temple, they shared that they found it very enjoyable. The plan had been to have lunch at Kuromon Market, but upon actually arriving there, they felt it was "geared toward tourists," so we simply passed through. After eating takoyaki in Dotonbori and having some beer, I guided them to an okonomiyaki restaurant, where we parted ways.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKitahama～Shitennoji Yuhigaoka240JPY
    Section 2SubwayShitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka Station～Nipponbashi190JPY
    Total430JPY

    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…

  • Tokyo: Departure: Yurikamome Shijoumae Station & Shibuya Station

    Tokyo: Departure: Yurikamome Shijoumae Station & Shibuya Station

    Tsukiji & Toyosu Market Local Food Tour with Licensed Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:30 Meeting place: "Yurikamome" Shijoumae Station
    • 10:35 Departure: Yurikamome Shijoumae Station
    • Toyosu Market Seafood Wholesale Building
    • Seafood Intermediate Wholesale Building
    • 11:30 Departure from Shijoumae Station
    • (Yurikamome)
    • Toyosu Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Yurakucho Line)
    • Tsukishima Station
    • (Toei Subway Oedo Line)
    • 12:00 Arrival at Tsukiji Market Station
    • Tsukiji Tsukiji Uogashi
    • Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 13:15 Departure from Tsukiji Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • 13:30 Arrival at Ueno Station
    • Ueno Ameyoko
    • 14:30 Departure from Ueno Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 15:00 Arrival at Shibuya Station
    • 15:00 Dismissal: Shibuya Station

    Title: What's a Private Tokyo Food Market Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Toyosu, Tsukiji, and Ameyoko The guests were visitors from North America. It was their first visit to Japan. They arrived at Haneda Airport two days ago and traveled by train, transferring lines, to their hotel in Shinjuku. Yesterday, they explored the Shinjuku area and enjoyed visiting izakaya in the evening. They planned to stay in Japan for a total of twelve days. Tomorrow they were scheduled to take a day trip to Mount Fuji and the Fuji Five Lakes. After that, they planned to travel around Kyoto, Nara, and Osaka before returning to Tokyo and heading home. They both said, "We love sushi and sashimi. We want to enjoy them to the fullest during our stay in Japan." The tour took place in rainy, chilly weather. We met at Shijo-mae Station on the Yurikamome Line. I explained the history of Tsukiji Market and Toyosu Market, as well as the difference between the wholesale market and the intermediate wholesale market. They asked questions such as, "Who comes here to buy fish?", "How much tuna is traded in a day?", and "What are the prices for tuna?" After this, we moved to Tsukiji. We took a leisurely walk through Tsukiji Uogashi and the Tsukiji Outer Market in the rain. First, we had coffee at a café. After that, we bought and sampled octopus-shaped senbei crackers, sea urchin, tuna sushi, and salt-grilled shrimp. They asked, "Is it always this crowded? Is this the usual situation?" and "Do all Tokyo residents come here to buy fish?" From here, we moved to Ueno and Ameyoko. They commented, "The atmosphere is different from Tsukiji Market. The prices also seem a little cheaper." After that, they said, "We'd like to go to Shibuya, so please take us there," so I saw them off at Shibuya Station and we parted ways. They also commented, "The whole city is so clean and beautiful. There's no trash on the streets." "There are no trash cans on the streets. Why is that?" and "The public restrooms are clean and pleasant."

    Click here for more details: Tsukiji & Toyosu Market Local Food Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Rental BikeShijoumae Station～Toyosu Station189JPY
    Section 2SubwayToyosu Station～Tsukishima Station178JPY
    Section 3SubwayTsukishima Station～Tsukiji Market Station178JPY
    Section 4SubwayTsukiji Station～Ueno Station178JPY
    Section 5SubwayUeno Station～Shibuya Station209JPY
    Total932JPY

    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 Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Hotel – 10:00 Meiji Shrine – 11:00 East Gardens of the Imperial Palace – 12:00 Asakusa Senso-ji Temple – 13:00 Ginza Disband

    Can You Do a Private Rainy-Day Tour of Tokyo by Taxi? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from North America. When I began explaining Japan's history and culture, they mentioned that they had studied the history of Japan and Asia during their school years, so we started the tour right away. Since it was raining heavily, I suggested chartering a taxi, and they immediately agreed, and off we went. Throughout the day the guests took photos everywhere. We covered the main tour route under umbrellas, and finished up in Ginza for some shopping. For lunch we enjoyed authentic sushi at a sushi restaurant, which the guests were very pleased with, bringing the tour to a satisfying close.

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

    Tour Report by Michio

    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!

    Request Booking

    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…

  • Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage in 1 Day by Car

    Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage in 1 Day by Car

    Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage in 1 Day by Car with Licensed Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • Hotel 9:00
    • Daimonzaka Parking Lot 9:15-9:25
    • Daimonzaka Sancho 9:30-9:50
    • Kumano Nachi Taisha 9:50-10:30
    • Seiganto-ji Temple 10:30-10:40
    • Nachi Falls 10:50-11:10
    • Move to Shingu 11:10-11:45
    • Meal at Maeda 11:45-12:20
    • Kamikura Shrine 12:20-12:50
    • Kumano Hayatama Taisha 12:50-13:10
    • Move to Kumano Hongu Taisha 13:10-14:10
    • Kumano Hongu Taisha 14:10-14:20
    • Stroll around Oyunohara 14:20-14:50
    • Move to Fudarakusan-ji Temple 14:50-15:40
    • Stroll around Fudarakusan-ji Temple 15:40-16:00
    • Move to hotel 16:00-16:15
    • Dismissal 16:20

    What Is a Private Kumano Sanzan Tour from Osaka Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Before today's tour, I received quite a lot of consultation, and although the plan was originally a day trip from Osaka, the guests chose to stay at a hotel in Nachikatsuura so they could enjoy the hot springs at a relaxed pace and explore the town as well. I stayed at the same hotel as the guests and went to meet them at the station to escort them to the hotel. First thing in the morning, we visited the tuna auction market, and then we set out on a tour of the Kumano Sanzan three grand shrines. The guests moved quickly and had no trouble climbing the stone steps up to Gotobiki Rock or the stairs at Nachi Taisha. At the shrines, they were collecting goshuin seal stamps. They seemed to love forest and mountain scenery and took many photographs. I also took plenty of photos of the group for them. Thanks to yesterday's rain, the water volume at Nachi Falls had increased, and when we went to the nearby viewing platform, the spray reached us with impressive force, which delighted them.

    Click here for more details: Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage in 1 Day by Car with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Yuki

    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.

    Request Booking

    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…

    May 23, 2026
    189mirjamf
    Tripadvisor review: Mt. Koya Sacred 6hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Grandioser Einblick in eine fremde Kultur
    Sehr nette und…

  • 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 Meeting point: Hotel Granvia Kyoto
    • 2. 10:30 Daitoku-ji Main Temple
    • 3. 10:50 Obai-in
    • 4. 11:20 Ginkaku-ji
    • 5. 12:30 Lunch
    • 6. 13:50 Heian Shrine
    • 7. 15:10 Gion Kobu (from the car window: Ichiriki Chaya, Kaburenjo Theater)
    • 8. 15:30 Gion Tatsumi Bridge & Shinbashi
    • 9. 16:10 Dismissal: Hotel Granvia

    What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like for Cruise Ship Guests Arriving at Osaka Port? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group from North America, joined by one member of the group who has lived in Japan for many years and currently resides in Nagoya. The visitors arrived at Osaka Port this morning by cruise ship and traveled directly to Kyoto, where they met up with the other member of the group at the Hotel. Some of the guests had visited Japan before, though this was the first time visiting Japan for leisure, and for one member it was a first visit to Japan altogether. The purpose was to introduce a beloved side of Japan to a first-time visitor and to enjoy a long-awaited reunion in Kyoto after many years apart. Throughout the tour, the guests kept up a continuous conversation with one another, and frequently requested group photos together. Since most of the guests had prior experience of sightseeing in Kyoto, they expressed a strong wish to stay away as much as possible from the crowds of the current tourist season. For this reason, we began the tour at the tranquil Daitoku-ji, considered a birthplace of tea ceremony culture, and its subtemple Obai-in, both of which were very warmly received. In the afternoon, we visited Ginkaku-ji, then Heian Shrine and its garden, and finished with a taxi tour past the Gion Kobu and Gion Kita districts, including the Tatsumi Bridge and Shinbashi area, where photos were taken. Taking into account the guiding time and the group's fatigue, we returned to the Hotel a little after 4:00 as scheduled. We parted with smiles and handshakes, and one of the guests commented that "the Kyoto sightseeing turned out exactly as I had quietly hoped, and I am very satisfied."

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKyoto～Kitaoji260JPY
    Total260JPY

    Tour Report by Masa

    Born, raised and married in Kyoto, I am Masaaki Tanaka started English-speaking licensed guide since 2008, guiding mostly those English-speaking inbound tourists in Kyoto, which is my home base, and in Osaka (where I woked so long time until my retirment) and Nara and in other Kansai areas incl. Kobe, Koyasan, etc. If allowed, I can say I am somewhat experinced in Japanese history (especially in its culture). When young, I lived and worked for some 11 years in the Middle East, which areas, accordingly, I am still quite familiar to . My hobby includes : seeing Noh Play and Kabuki, hearing Musics in general (Beethoven, Beatles, Jazz & Rock’n Rolls as well as Japanese classicals), seeing the paintings/artworks in general, playing the piano (all time at beginner’s level, though), playing the guitar and, when younger, I enjoyed skiing and business golf. Also, I am, since my childhoo, a great fan of Tigers in Japan’s pro-base ball. I love cats (keeping now an old female ‘Chee’ chan) , and certainly my wife Tokuko as well.

    Request Booking

    Jul 30, 2026
    amydJ3030YT
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Private Kyoto tour with a licensed guide and separate driver…

    Mar 20, 2026
    moisessG5827VE
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Masaaki Tanaka was the best tour guide ever!
    Masaaki Tanaka was an…

    Jun 16, 2025
    896nataliex
    Amazing Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Masaaki, was an excellent tour guide and wealth of knowledge…

    Apr 23, 2025
    Simon S
    Enjoyable and informative
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Full Day Tour from Osaka with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    The service was friendly…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1100 Hotel (8 min from Tawaramachi Station on Ginza Line, next to Hanayashiki) meeting point　Stroll around Sensoji Temple, Asakusa Shrine, and Nakamise
    • 1210 Stroll around Akihabara
    • 1255 Tsukiji Outer Market　Kabukiza Theatre　Ginza 4-chome intersection
    • 1415 Shibuya　Hachiko statue　Scramble crossing
    • 1445 Harajuku　Visit Meiji Shrine　Takeshita Street
    • 1640 Shinjuku　3D cat display　Godzilla Road　Omoide Yokocho
    • 1710 They plan to stroll around Kabukicho, so we disband at Omoide Yokocho

    What Does a First-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Cover? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Europe. Yesterday, after arriving at Haneda, they came by the Asakusa Line, but they had a hard time at Asakusa Station because there were many stairs. Tawaramachi Station actually has elevators, so I explained that going forward, since they would be traveling to Kanazawa and other parts of western Japan, it would be convenient to use the Tsukuba Express Asakusa Station near their Hotel and transfer at Akihabara. Since they had gone straight to the Hotel yesterday without passing through Nakamise, I gave the usual explanations of Senso-ji Temple, Asakusa Shrine, and Nakamise. They said they would do their shopping tomorrow. As it was their first day in Tokyo and they wanted to learn the representative spots and the transportation system, we followed the itinerary above. I kept shopping and meals to a minimum and increased the number of places we visited. Even so, in the end they enjoyed a crepe on Takeshita Street. I gave them a Tokyo Travel Guide and explained a few areas for the coming days. Since they wanted to walk around Shinjuku a bit more on their own, we parted ways at Omoide Yokocho.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayAsakusa～Suehirocho178JPY
    Section 2SubwayAkihabara～Tsukiji178JPY
    Section 3SubwayGinza～Shibuya209JPY
    Section 4TrainShibuya～Harajuku146JPY
    Section 5TrainHarajuku～Shinjuku146JPY
    Total857JPY

    Tour Report by Ted

    I had worked in the international business scene for over 40 years and traveled to North America and European countries over 1000 days.
    After I retired from the business, I traveled to most of the major sightseeing spots in all 47 prefectures in Japan.

    My guide is starting from a brief history of the site where I am going to guide. I usually add a briefing about Japanese culture based on religions, such as Shinto Shrine and Buddhist temples. A geographic background behind the history is also important.
    My course includes 4 to 5 (in 6 hours) sites from the following depending on where I will pick the guests up;
    – Senso ji Temple
    – Kappabashi Kitchenware Market
    – Tokyo Skytree
    – Ueno Park
    – Nezu Shrine
    – Imperial Palace outer park
    – Tokyo Central Station, Marunouchi historic district
    – Tsukiji Fish Market
    – Koishikawa Korakuen Garden
    – Ginza
    – Odaiba
    – Hama Rikyu Garden
    – Shinjuku Gyoen Garden
    – Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
    – Roppongi
    – Meiji Shrine
    – Harajuku & Takeshita Street
    – Shibuya
    – and Any of your interest.

    I am happy to introduce Japanese Manga/Anime cultures such as Akihabara, Nakano Broadway and Ghibli related sites.
    Travelling along the JR central line where guests can stopover at major animation studios (it is not accepted to visit the inside). The majority of animation studios such as TMS Entertainment, SUNRISE, A1 Pictures etc. are located in this area. Suginami Animation museum, Studio Ghibli and Ghibli Museum are also located.
    Guests can feel old houses in the Spirited Away scene in the Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum.

    I can also provide a pilgrimage to the sacred place (shooting location) for the Shinkai Makoto animation movies such as Your name, Weathering with you, and Suzume.

    Another interesting feature is to visit authentic Japanese style pub meals such as Yakitori, Karaage, and Sushi etc.
    Asakusa Hoppy Street, Ameyoko Street, Yurakucho, Shimbashi, Shinjuku Golden gai, Shinjuku Omoide Yokocho are nice to visit.

    A Sake tasting at Sake Cellar can be an option.

    In addition to the above, I am available in the neighboring cities.

    Kawagoe is an old town developed in the 17th century. It has very close relationship with the Edo central government. Kawagoe castle ruins, Kitain temple and 500 Buddha statues will welcome the guests.
    These areas are renovated and provide an old days atmosphere.
    Japanese style sweets food stands will fascinate the guests.
    Kawagoe is about 1 – 1.5 train trip from Tokyo.

    Kamakura is the first Samurai worriers government established in the late 12th century.
    The Buddhism are introduced to Japan in the 6th century, and flourished at Nara and Kyoto later. A newer Buddhism sect such as Zen has well developed at Kamakura area.
    Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, Gigantic Buddha statue at Kotokuin Temple and the flower temple Hasedera Temple are must-see.
    Kamakura is about 1 – 1.5 train trip from Tokyo.

    I am also happy to develop any other site the guests have interest.

    Request Booking

    Jul 2, 2026
    Susan M
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Family fun in Tokyo.
    A wonderful day. Ted customized our tour…

    Jun 26, 2026
    ann r
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Educational with kind, generous guide
    My teenage sons and I learned…

    Jun 14, 2026
    141yunb
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Can’t believe all that we got to see in 6 hours
    We…

    May 18, 2026
    B
    Beth56646
    Great tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Ted and I agreed upon what we would see…

  • Kawagoe Half-Day Trip from Tokyo

    Kawagoe Half-Day Trip from Tokyo

    Kawagoe Half-Day Trip from Tokyo with Licensed Local Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Tokyu Stay Shinjyuku Meet　From Shinjuku 3-chome (Fukutoshin Line)　to Hon-Kawagoe Station　by taxi (customer's own expense 700 yen)　to Kitain Temple and 500 Rakan Statues　by bus　get off at Otemachi　Time Bell Tower　Former Yamazaki Family Villa　Kurazukuri Street　Candy Alley　strolling　and lunch　from Nakacho by bus　Kawagoe Station　by train　accompany to Ikebukuro After that, the customer will return on their own, so we disband at 3:30pm

    What Is a Private Kawagoe Day Tour Like from Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting from North America for a one-week trip around the Tokyo area. They chose to visit Kawagoe because of their interest in Japanese history. Kitain Temple, which has deep connections to the Tokugawa family from the Edo period, was a perfect place to introduce the history of Edo, the Tokugawa shogunate, the shoguns, Kawagoe, and "Little Edo," along with the 500 Rakan statues. The former Yamazaki family villa, the Bell of Time, and the warehouse-style townscape were completely different from anything back home, and the guests found them fascinating as they strolled through the area. During a coffee break at a coffee shop, I quickly made a handmade celebration board and presented it to them. A staff member at the coffee shop, learning of the occasion, kindly offered a complimentary drink, and we all enjoyed a delightful moment together. (The photo was taken later at a soba restaurant.)

    Click here for more details: Kawagoe Half-Day Trip from Tokyo with Licensed Local Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinjuku 3-chome (Fukutoshin Line) near the hotel～Hon-Kawagoe Station659JPY
    Section 2BusKitain Temple～Otemachi (near the Time Bell Tower)200JPY
    Section 3BusNakacho～Kawagoe Station200JPY
    Section 4TrainKawagoe Station～Ikebukuro481JPY
    Total1,540JPY

    Tour Report by Hiro

    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

    Request Booking

    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 Peace Park Customized Tour

    Hiroshima Peace Park Customized Tour

    Hiroshima Peace Park Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:30 Meet at Hotel　10:50 Ground Zero, Atomic Bomb Dome, Mobilized Students Memorial, Children's Peace Monument, Memorial Mound, A-bombed Gravestones, G7 Summit Tree Planting, Cenotaph, Museum
    • 13:30 Stroll through Shukkeien Garden (scenic spot, daimyo garden) 14:40 Disband at Hiroshima Station restaurant district

    What Is a Private Peace Park and Shukkeien Garden Tour in Hiroshima Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from the Middle East. They viewed the Peace Memorial Park and the museum with great enthusiasm. The museum was relatively uncrowded, so I was able to guide them smoothly. They had seen the film "Oppenheimer" and recognized some of the same materials among the museum's exhibits. The guests were well aware of the Chernobyl nuclear power plant accident. One of them was originally from Europe, a neighboring region, and spoke of hearing stories from family members about the effects of radiation exposure. After the museum, I introduced Shukkeien Garden, and since they were very keen to visit, we went there. They admired the greenery of the plantings and the carp in the pond, spending a relaxing time. They were very grateful, saying the combination of the Peace Memorial Park and Shukkeien Garden was excellent. Afterwards, I guided them to the okonomiyaki restaurant area inside Hiroshima Station, where we parted ways.

    Click here for more details: Hiroshima Peace Park Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Shin

    I have been an English and Italian guide for 10 years in Hiroshima, Miyajima, Okayama, Kurashiki, Iwakuni, Himeji, Osaka, Kochi and Sanin. I used to work for the Japanese trading house in Milan Italy for 9 years, Ho Chi Minh City Vietnam for 2 years and Kobe /Osaka for 25 years. I was engaged in the textile and apparel division covering European and Asian market. Moreover, I worked for a food company who produce special sauce for okonomiyaki, famous local food. After retiring, I live in Hiroshima, my hometown, working as a tourist guide mainly, sometimes as an Italian interpreter for A-bomb survivor testimonies and translation. I guide you about history, culture, architecture, art, industry, economy and so on according to your interests and wishes. My hobby is oil painting of the scenery of the Inland Sea of Seto, the first national park of Japan and visiting art museum. I am interested in impressionists and works during renaissance.

    Request Booking

    Mar 21, 2025
    Carol B
    Peaceful Tour with Kind Local
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Relaxed tour with…

    Dec 10, 2024
    Catherine_U
    Great Half Day with Shin!
    Viator review: Miyajima Half-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    We enjoyed our half day tour…

    Dec 8, 2024
    William W
    11/10 Great Guide
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Our guide, Mr. Itaki, is…

    Oct 7, 2024
    Shiv_K
    We had a lovely visit of…
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    We had a…

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1) 11:00 Meet up @ The Tokyo EDITION Ginza (2-8-13 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo)
    • 2) 12:10 Mori Art Museum (53F Roppongi Hills Mori Tower, 6-10-1 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo)
    • 3) 13:30 The National Art Center, Tokyo (7-22-2 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo)
    • 4) 14:20 Nihonbashi Kiya Tokyo Midtown Store (Tokyo Midtown Galleria 3F, 9-7-4 Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo)
    • 5) 14:40 Suntory Museum of Art (Tokyo Midtown Galleria 3F, 9-7-4 Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo)
    • 6) 15:10 Disband @ 21_21 DESIGN SIGHT (Tokyo Midtown, Midtown Garden, 9-7-6 Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo)

    Title: What's a Private Art Museum Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide led a private art museum tour in Tokyo for guests visiting from North America. In advance, the guests had expressed a wish to visit museums and proposed four locations (contact was made via a messaging app, though it turned out on the day that the number belonged to an overseas agent). At the meeting point, the guests requested recommendations for vintage kimono shops, so the guide picked out five or six shops in Asakusa. Since none of the shops had English websites, the guide sent a list of shop names to the guests' own number via the messaging app, which took about 30 minutes. At the guests' suggestion, we took a taxi to the Mori Art Museum. We viewed the "Louise Bourgeois" exhibition (the guide entered free by showing the guide license) and stayed for about 30 minutes; the guests were very absorbed, as this was an artist they knew well. They had also hoped to see the Tokyo City View, but gave it up after being told the view would be poor due to rain. With the light rain, we took a taxi to the National Art Center, Tokyo, which was less than a 10-minute walk away. We viewed the special exhibition "Keiichi Tanaami: Adventures in Memory" (here the guide also needed an admission fee and waited at the exit). Not being well-versed in art, the guide felt a little anxious, but was relieved to see the guests both enjoyed it. The conversation moved from trivia about the late Kisho Kurokawa, who designed this museum, to their frank opinions on a former U.S. president, and they gradually opened up. Next, we walked a few minutes to the Suntory Museum of Art on the third floor of Tokyo Midtown. On the same floor there are many shops selling traditional Japanese-brand crafts (which the guide had marked during a preliminary visit). We stopped at "Nihonbashi Kiya," where the woodworking knife the guests wanted was out of stock (available at the main store in Nihonbashi, so we checked the location for a later visit), but they purchased two items including nail clippers. We then viewed the "Hanabusa Itcho" exhibition at the Suntory Museum of Art (here the guide also viewed the exhibition thanks to the guests' kindness; there was no senior discount, but showing the Mori Art Museum ticket gave a 100-yen discount) and stayed for about 20 minutes. Since the guests kindly covered the taxi fares and also purchased the guide's admission ticket, and this felt like too much, the guide gave the guests several traditional Japanese craft postcards sold at the museum gift shop (two of which featured Hanabusa Itcho's paintings) as a small gift, which they were delighted to receive. Finally, the guide led the guests to the last museum, "21_21 DESIGN SIGHT," introduced recommended buildings in the city, and took photos together (on the condition that personal names would never be made public) before parting ways. The guests were also interested in textiles, and I hope they came to know so many wonderful aspects of Japan — vintage kimono, made-in-Japan woodworking knives, and more — and will spread the word back home!

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

    Tour Report by Tachi

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

    Request Booking

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

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

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

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

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Tokyo National Museum & Meiji Shrine

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Tokyo National Museum & Meiji Shrine

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at Hotel
    • 9:25 Breakfast at Starbucks near the Park Exit of JR Ueno Station
    • 10:00 Tokyo National Museum
    • 11:40 Meiji Shrine
    • 13:35 Lunch at "Nishi-Azabu Gonpachi"
    • 14:50 Disband in front of "Nishi-Azabu Gonpachi"

    Title: What Is a Private Rainy-Day Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Meiji Shrine and the Tokyo National Museum The guests arrived in Japan the day before from North America for a memorable trip to Japan. They planned to stay in Tokyo for a few days, then travel to Kyoto, Osaka, and Hakone before returning to Tokyo and heading home. Beforehand, the guests had expressed a wish to make this a truly memorable trip, so we exchanged several emails and decided together on the accommodation and the lunch spot after the tour. Today it rained heavily from the morning, so I changed the previously planned visit to Asakusa to the Tokyo National Museum instead. At Meiji Shrine, the heavy rain eased to a light drizzle, and I took a commemorative photo of the guests in front of the Meoto Kusu camphor trees (though one extra person happened to appear in the shot). Over lunch at Gonpachi, the guests kindly shared various stories about themselves, from how they first met up to the present day.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainJR Yamanote Line Tokyo Station～JR Yamanote Line Ueno Station170JPY
    Section 2TrainJR Yamanote Line Ueno Station～JR Yamanote Line Harajuku Station210JPY
    Section 3TrainTokyo Metro Chiyoda Line Meiji-jingumae (Harajuku) Station～Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line Nogizaka Station180JPY
    Total560JPY

    Tour Report by Bruce

    Hello (Konnichiwa). My name is Masanori SUGANO. Most of my friends call me Bruce, so you can call me Bruce. It would be my pleasure to act as a guide for you as I have been a guide for over twenty years. I curate my tours to suit your quest for knowledge and make you laugh with Dad jokes as an ice breaker. I can add some of my experiences as seasoning since I’m a seasoned guide. I always gain a new perspective through my guests’ eyes, and that’s why I am passionate about my job.
    You can create your own itinerary, and when we meet, you can let me know what things you want to see. I am very flexible and can go off the beaten track on your request.
    Should you have any questions, please feel free to contact me. I am looking forward to meeting you.
    Thank you (Arigatou-gozaimasu).

    Request Booking

    Jul 2, 2026
    jamespmccormick
    Tripadvisor review: The Best Family-Friendly Tokyo Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Great Tokyo tour with Bruce!
    We booked a 6 hour…

    Jun 12, 2026
    716suzannab
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Amazing experience
    Bruce was an amazing guide. He taught us some essential…

    May 27, 2026
    beaufordtjustice
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour of Tokyo with Bruce!
    My son and I had a…

    May 24, 2026
    A2151KImelissab
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Day out in Tokyo
    I enjoyed a solo guided tour of Tokyo…