Tokyo (Living)
Japanese (Native), English
4 hours on average
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I have been working as a journalist for 37 years in Kyodo News Service, Japan’s most prestigious news agency. From 1989-1991, I was dispatched to Cyprus, Nicosia and working as a Middle East correspondent. I covered the Gulf War during the time. I worked at Kyodo’s New York bureau from 1994-97 covering the Wall Street and the United Nations. Although I am still working as a journalist here in Japan, I would love to have an opportunity to introduce my country to people from abroad as a tour guide. I will show you the best of Tokyo and other noted palce Including Kyoto.
For two persons, I can take you to the suburbs of Tokyo by car such as Mount Fuji or Mount Takao, and other interesting places you would like to visit.
“Great and effective guiding”
Toru M did his absolute best to make sure our last evening in Japan included everything we expected. We had only a few hours to experience Tokyo in connection to a business trip. Toru M had great suggestions, considering our group, the time at hand as well as the weather and the season. He also found us a lovley and very Japanese restaurant and guided us all the way to its doors. Toru M and I had several (typed) conversations in excellent english preceding the tour. From our wishlist Toru M selected and proposed, realstic to the time at hand, experiences and views around Shibuya Scramble Crossing. Traveling by Subway to a walkabout in Shibuya together with all other busy japans in rushhour was perfect. We had well planned, effective, safe and fun hours accompanied by Toru M. Recommend, recommend.
Toru M.
(4 reviews)I appreciate your remarks and evaluations. Given the location of the hotel and the availability of the time, I thought Shibuya was the best place to experience the wonders and attractions of Tokyo. I am pleaded to hear that my guidance contributed better understanding of all of you about Japan.
“An excellent guide for Tokyo”
Toru-san was a wonderful guide for Tokyo, which can be confusing when you have no Japanese language skills. Toru-san is a retired Journalist for a Japanese newspaper. His English is excellent and he has a sophisticated knowledge of the US. We had multiple conversations before our tour and he was extremely helpful. Toru-san arranged for a Mercedes van to pick my daughter, her partner, my wife and I up at the Tokyo cruise port. After dropping our luggage at our hotel, he had the car take us to the Imperial Palace. We were fortunate to be able to visit a part of the Imperial Palace that was usually closed to the public, but was open on that day. Toru-san introduced us to the Tokyo subway system, which can be confusing. He took us to the office where we could buy Pasmo passport subway cards. These cards can be recharge with funds and allow you to ride all of the subway lines. Toru-san took us to visit the Sensō-ji Buddhist temple in Tokyo. He explained the history of the temple and a Shrine. We asked Toru-san to make a reservation at a Sushi restaurant that overlooks the Sumida River in Tokyo. We had a wonderful lunch and I very much enjoyed talking with Toru-san. I have visited European union countries over the years, but Japan has been one of the most challenging places I have visited. Toru-san was a wonderful guide and I recommend him.
Toru M.
(4 reviews)Dear Ian, I am deeply grateful for the glowing evaluation you provided me with. Your words serve as a tremendous source of motivation for me to strive towards becoming an even better guide. Your sincere respect for our culture and civilization has not gone unnoticed, and I am truly appreciative of your attitude towards understanding and embracing different cultures. I have gained invaluable insights from our interactions on how to respectfully engage with and appreciate diverse cultures. Wishing you an absolutely magnificent journey filled with enriching experiences and countless opportunities as you continue your exploration throughout Japan. Warm regards, Toru Maruyama
“Excellently planned first day in Tokyo”
We were very pleased with our first day in Tokyo that Toru has planned for us. He managed to meet and exceed all our expectations. Parents and children were equally pleased. It was a long day full of discoveries and positive emotions. Our gratitude and best wishes for Toru, who took such a good care of us today!!!
Toru M.
(4 reviews)I was glad to have spent such a long time with your family.