This is a private guided tour report by Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.), a network of 1,000+ government-licensed, English-speaking local guides across all 47 prefectures of Japan. Not affiliated with the Japan Guide Association.

Tour Itinerary

  • 8:30 Meet at Tobu Nikko Station
  • 8:45 Tobu Nikko → Chuzenji Onsen, travel by bus
  • 9:40 Kegon Falls
  • 10:00 Nikko Natural Science Museum
  • 10:50 Chuzenji Onsen → Yasukawa-cho
  • 11:30 Maruhide Shokudo (Lunch)
  • 12:10 Nikko Toshogu Shrine
  • 13:00 Shinkyo Bridge
  • 13:30 Tobu Nikko Station (Dismissal)

What Is a Private Day Tour of Nikko Like? A Licensed Guide's Report

The guests were visitors from North America. At Kegon Falls, they were moved by its grandeur. On the way back from Chuzenji Onsen to central Nikko, since there was time before the bus departure, I suggested visiting the Nikko Natural Science Museum near the bus stop, which was not part of the original plan. They gladly agreed and enjoyed their time there. They had fun taking a virtual photo with a bear. For lunch, they enjoyed katsu curry and vegetarian ramen. At Nikko Toshogu Shrine, they purchased bell charms. We then moved to the Shinkyo Bridge. Although it was still early, the guests wanted to head back soon to prepare for their return home, so we walked to Tobu Nikko and parted ways at the station. During lunch, I folded a samurai helmet and a crane out of origami for them, and they were very pleased.

Transportation cost per person

No.TransportationRouteFare
Section 1Free PassTobu Nikko~Chuzenji Onsen2,300JPY
Total2,300JPY

Hello! My name is Mato. I got a National License in 2020.
Before the coronavirus pandemic, I guided about 20 pairs in Tokyo as volunteer. In 2023 I guided 16times such as Tokyo ,Okinawa, Kochi ,Sendai, and Mt Fuji view cycling tour at Lake Kawaguchi. In Tokyo I guided Shibuya, Shinjyuku, Roppngi, Imperial palace,Ueno, Asakusa. Especially I am good at guiding at Ueno and Asakusa.
My hobby is running, hiking,eating,drinking Sake,cooking,and travelling by local train. What about eating, I like eating Sushi, and I cook Sushi sometimes. Also I know very nice Sushi restaurant in Tokyo. And what about tour spot in Tokyo, I know Ueno and Asakusa well. So I can show you hidden spot.
Also I can make Origami cranes, so I can give them for your souvenir. Let’s enjoy Japan tour with me.

Jun 4, 2026
123Susan321
Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
Great day out
Great day spent exploring Tokyo with our guide Mato.…

Apr 17, 2026
Wendy_J
Viator review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide from Yokohama
Tokyo
Great tour of Tokyo with Mato. Saw many sights…

Mar 31, 2026
U1583SAgregt
Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
Mato is the best!
Mato was one of the best tour guides…

Oct 27, 2025
Drakhignazzo
Wonderful day in Nikko
Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
Had a lovely day with Mato with Nikko.…