Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo: Conrad Tokyo & Dosukoi Tanaka

    Tokyo: Conrad Tokyo & Dosukoi Tanaka

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Conrad Tokyo
    • 9:40 Ueno – Statue of Saigo Takamori, Grave of the Shogitai, Kiyomizu Kannon-do, Ueno Toshogu
    • 10:40 Nippori – Yanaka Cemetery, Tsukiji-bei (mud wall), Yanaka Ginza, Isetatsu, Hebi-michi (snake road)
    • 11:50 Nezu Shrine
    • 12:45 Dosukoi Tanaka

    What Is a Private Ueno and Yanaka Walking Tour Like in Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. Since the tour included a sumo show starting at 13:00, I made sure to keep to the schedule carefully. As they had requested less touristy spots, I took them to Ueno and Yanaka, and they were very pleased with the quiet atmosphere and the smaller crowds. At Nezu Shrine, they showed great interest in the ema votive plaques, made an offering, and also purchased omamori charms. They listened attentively to stories about history, and it was a very pleasant group to guide. I truly enjoyed showing them around.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShimbashi~Ueno170JPY
    Section 2TrainUeno~Nippori150JPY
    Section 3SubwayNezu~Kikukawa290JPY
    Total610JPY

    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!!

    Sep 30, 2026
    16shelleyb
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo in 1 Day from Yokohama: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Great day in Toyko
    Four of us spent an…

    Sep 29, 2026
    982marvf
    Yokohama Experience
    Tripadvisor review: Yokohama Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Takako is an outstanding tour guide who knows Yokohama…

    Sep 24, 2026
    marshad422
    A great day of seeing so much and gaining knowledge of the historical and spiritual meaning to the places visited.
    Tripadvisor…

    Sep 18, 2026
    7
    770stefanieg
    Wonderful, personalized tour of Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Takako, our guide…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Shibuya

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Shibuya

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet up @ the lobby of the Hotel
    • Tsukiji Fish Market
    • Omotesanndo Street
    • Takeshita Street
    • Meiji Jingu
    • 14:15 Shibuya

    What Is a Private Tokyo Family Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tsukiji, Harajuku, and Shibuya The guests were a family visiting from North America. They were very friendly, and it was a pleasure to guide them. At Tsukiji, they enjoyed a tasting comparison of three kinds of tuna, savored wagyu beef at a long-established butcher shop, and had a great time purchasing tea and beans. We strolled a little along Omotesando before heading to Takeshita Street. There they enjoyed an animal cafe and shops with bold, unique fashion, and had crepes, a specialty of Takeshita Street. At Meiji Shrine, they were very fond of the quiet atmosphere of the surrounding forest. In Shibuya, I introduced several recommended shops and buildings, and after they enjoyed Shibuya Crossing, I guided them to the 6th floor of Parco. Everyone in the group was absolutely delighted.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainOtemachi~Tsukiji180JPY
    Section 2TrainTsukiji~Meiji-jingumae210JPY
    Section 3TrainHarajuku~Shibuya150JPY
    Total540JPY

    Hi,
    Thank you for contacting the Japan Guide Association to request a licensed guide for your upcoming visit to Japan. My name is Motoko Tanaka. I’m so happy to be assigned to you.
    Let me introduce myself. I was born and raised in Tokyo, so it is nice to hear that you are excited about your visit to this wonderful city. There is much to be excited about here in Tokyo. I have really enjoyed guiding in Tokyo and the surrounding areas for more than 10 years.
    I live with my husband and a dog named Alice. She was a rescue dog and I adopted her about 4 years ago. Now she is a very precious family member. I have two daughters, the elder one has a child and the younger has a aroma shop in a town near Mr. Fuji. I sometimes visit there with Alice.
    I look forward to hearing from you and working with you to create a special day.
    Regards,
    Motoko

    Sep 21, 2026
    Keith_S
    Wonderful Experience
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had a wonderful guide, Motoko, who…

    Apr 25, 2026
    catvila
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Primeira vez em Tóquio
    A Motoko foi excelente para nos guiar pelos…

    Apr 22, 2026
    72breannaj
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour highly recommend! And loved our guide
    We had an amazing…

    Apr 17, 2026
    denisemD3032GY
    Tripadvisor review: Kawagoe 6hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide (Tokyo/Kawagoe dep)
    Tokyo walking tour
    Our guide Motoko was so polite &…

  • Kyoto: Nijo Castle & Fushimi Inari

    Kyoto: Nijo Castle & Fushimi Inari

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet up @ Mimaru Kyoto Station
    • 10:30 Visit Nijo Castle
    • 11:45 Visit Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 13:00 Lunch @ Kitaoji Aeon Mall, Food Court
    • 14:15 Visit Sanjusangen-do
    • 15:00. Visit Fushimi Inari (Release the chartered car here)
    • 16:00 Disband @ Keihan Kiyomizu-Gojo Station

    Title: What Is a Private Car Tour of Kyoto's Top Sights Like for a Family? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. After spending four days each in Tokyo and Kanazawa, they arrived in Kyoto the previous day. Some of the guests had visited Japan more than ten years ago and had been to Kyoto before, but that previous trip was a short and hurried stay and they did not remember where they had gone. This time they wanted to see the major spots, except for Arashiyama, which was planned for the following day, and that is how the above itinerary came about. The weather was wonderful and the crowds were not too heavy, and everyone enjoyed the tour. Although the group included young children, a chartered car was arranged, so we were able to get around efficiently and without any trouble. The children were relatively well-behaved and there were no particular problems. I gave some thought to where we would have lunch, but the food court I suggested (Kitaoji Aeon Mall) allowed everyone to easily eat what they liked, and it was well received, which was a relief.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKeihan Fushimi Inari~Keihan Kiyomizu-Gojo220JPY
    Total220JPY

    My name is Shoji and I’m a tour guide in Kyoto, an ancient capital of Japan for more than one thousand years until the mid 19th century.
    I have been doing this work since 2019 covering not only Kyoto but also its surrounding areas like Nara , Osaka and Shiga.
    I am very much interested in Japanese history, culture and traditional arts.
    Kyoto and the Kansai region are rich with many heritage sites of historical and cultural features.
    I am sure that I can provide the guests with good insight and help them appreciate the charms of our wonderful city.

    May 23, 2026
    Amber_D
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great walking tour in Kyoto!
    Shoji was a great guide around Kyoto.…

    Jun 25, 2025
    Safari35155142765
    Peaceful and perfect temple guided tour.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Brilliant private guided tour of Kyoto…

    Jun 22, 2025
    Global136391
    Shoji Ogawa Made Kyoto Come Alive!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    If you’re ever in Kyoto, you…

    Jun 9, 2025
    Amy_R
    Wonderful Nara tour
    Viator review: Private Nara Tour with Government Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Kyoto Departure)
    We had such a wonderful…

  • Toyosu Tuna Auction & Tsukiji Local Food Tour

    Toyosu Tuna Auction & Tsukiji Local Food Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1.500 ホテル
    • 2.530 豊洲で特別ツアー開始
    • 3.615 豊洲の寿司屋
    • 4.730 中間ビル&ショッピング
    • 5.800 築地場外市場(築地魚河岸+カフェ)
    • 6.845 築地で終了。

    Title: What Is a Private Tsukiji and Toyosu Fish Market Food Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The group originally applied for a lottery-based market tour, and after being selected, they requested to add one more person. Because no changes were allowed after selection, and partly due to a misunderstanding on the guests' side, there were many email exchanges. In the end, the original members joined the market-organized tour while I guided the additional guest, and afterward we all met up again and went to a sushi restaurant. Everyone was very satisfied, saying "the sushi is really delicious." Since I ate almost nothing myself, the bill came to 32,000 yen for the group, which works out to about 6,000 yen per person — they ate the largest amount of any guests I have had so far. After that, they shopped for cooking tools at the intermediate wholesalers' building and bought a katsuobushi (dried bonito) shaver. We then moved to Tsukiji, where at the Tsukiji Uogashi they bought and ate tuna nakaochi, and since they wanted coffee, we went to the 3rd floor for coffee, where they realized they needed to get to teamLab by 9:00. I sent instructions in Japanese to the taxi driver via a messaging app, and that concluded the tour. They also asked small questions such as wanting to visit the largest MUJI store and a LEGO store, which I helped with, and they were very grateful.

    My name is KAZU HAKATA. 73years old (as of end AUG2025). I started as a guide from March 2023. Graduated from KYOTO Univ Intl Economics and MBA from INSEAD in France. (14 years in overseas, LUX, Paris, Hong Kong) . I used to work in Banking, Telecommunication, Air Line, Financial Trading as CFO. I did more than 150 days of Guide since 2023,Tokyo( most of the Guides), Nikko, Hakone, Kamakura, and other area. Born in Hyogo Pref. I lived 26 years in Kansai and know quite well Kyoto, Nara, Osaka ,Kobe, Wakayama ( Koya san + Kumano Kodo).
    I know not only touristic sites, but I can show you hidden charming points of JAPAN. If you can enjoy your tour in JAPAN, it is also my pleasure. I will do as much as I can to assist you to understand Japanese history, culture, nature, and a real life in JAPAN.
    [FRANCAIS]
    J’ai commencee a Guide apres avoir obtenu Diplome de Francaise en fevrier 2023. Jusqu’a maintenant j’ai effectue plus de 150 guides dont 1/4 francais. Principalement a Tokyo , mais de temps en temps aux Nikko, Kamakura, Kawaguchiko, Hakone, Takayama, Shirakawago, Kanazawa, Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, Okayama, Naoshima.
    A Tokyo, les sites frequentes sont Tsukiji, Hama Rikyu, Asakusa, Jardin Imperial, Rikugi-En , Yanaka, Ueno, Ameyoko, Musee Nationale, Akihabara, Jardin de Korakuen , Harajuku, Sanctuaire de Meiji, ruelle de Tekeshita , Aoyama, Shibuya, Temple de Gotokuji, etc.
    Comme je suis ne a Hyogo ( ouest du Japon) et etudie a Kyoto, Je connais bien Kyoto,Nara,Osaka, Mont Koya, Hieizan. En plus j’ai travaille a Osaka 2017-2019.pendant cette periode j’ai souvent visitee des sites touristiques a Kyoto, Nara, Osaka. J’ai fait les randonnes a Kumono Kodo et 33 temples en Kansai.

    Apr 4, 2026
    Rebecca_M
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kazu Rocks!!
    Kazu was a gem! From our booking well in advance…

    Oct 19, 2025
    geoffreysE7617EB
    6-hour Tokyo Tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    My guide, Kazuyasu Hakata, modified some of the tour,…

    Oct 9, 2025
    zglus
    6 Hr walking Tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kazuyas brought us all around Tokyo and was…

    Sep 26, 2025
    JulieD4351
    We saw the fish market, many shrines, the busy walkway, and much more!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed…

  • Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour

    Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 7:00 Meet at Kyoto Station 7:30 Fushimi Inari 9:10 Arashiyama Bamboo Grove 10:30 Kinkaku-ji 12:10 Higashiyama Area 12:35 Lunch 13:15 Higashiyama Area (Ninenzaka・Yasaka Pagoda) 13:45 Gion Area  14:20 Sanjusangendo 15:10 Tour Ends

    Can You Do a Private Full-Day Kyoto Tour Starting Early Morning? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from North America. Although we started at the early hour of 7:00, we were able to meet almost on time and begin the tour. The guests walked quickly, which helped keep us on schedule. By around 7:30, Fushimi Inari Shrine was already quite crowded. For lunch we went to a reasonably priced soba restaurant near Kodaiji Temple, but it was full and we had to wait about 20 minutes. As it was the autumn foliage season, there were not only visitors from overseas but also Japanese travelers and school excursion students. The guests waited patiently. In Gion, the inconsiderate behavior of some overseas tourists was again noticeable. Today I saw a group in rental kimono dancing and filming videos in front of a private residence. It was so inappropriate that I asked a security guard to give them a warning. Photos were taken at Kinkakuji Temple.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto~Inari150JPY
    Section 2TrainInari~Enmachi200JPY
    Section 3BusEnmachi~Kinkakuji-michi1,100JPY
    Section 4BusKinkakuji-michi~Kitaoji Bus Terminal0JPY
    Section 5SubwayKitaoji~Higashiyama0JPY
    Section 6BusHigashiyama-sanjo~Higashiyama-yasui0JPY
    Section 7BusGion~Sanjusangendo-mae0JPY
    Total1,450JPY

    I was born and grew up in Kyoto and now live near Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto. I used to be a schoolteacher of English and welcome a lot of students from foreign countries. I really enjoyed showing them around Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, Himeji, and Hiroshima. I have been a professional tour guide for about 8 years. I always try to let my guests learn Japanese traditional and modern culture. Since I was born in Kyoto, I know a lot about its culture and people. I myself enjoyed several sports, such as soccer, judo, and marathon when I was young. I’m much interested in baseball and sumo. My motto as a tour guide is to let my guests learn about our tradition and culture precisely and really enjoy themselves. I strongly hope you will enjoy the tour in Japan with me.

    Sep 28, 2026
    Miguel_E
    Amazing Service
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had a wonderful time with Kazuo.…

    Sep 27, 2026
    T
    TrailBlazer47194
    Kazuo Sumi is a great guide.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Our guide Kazuo Sumi…

    Sep 1, 2026
    Steve6172014
    Excellent tour of Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had a great tour…

    Aug 7, 2026
    Pascale_Q
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Very good private tour of Kyoto with Kazuo
    We had…

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:27 Meet @ Mimaru Kyoto Shinmachi Sanjo 9:00 @ Fushimi Inari Taisha 10:20 @ Sanjusangendo 11:30 @ Kiyomizu-dera 12:40 Lunch @ Kairikiya 13:40 @ Nijo Castle 14:40 @ Mimaru Kyoto Shinmachi Sanjo

    Title: What Is a 6-Hour Private Kyoto Tour by Vehicle Like? A Government-Licensed Guide's Report I guided a group visiting Kyoto, and one member of the group used a wheelchair, so I guided them using the wheelchair-accessible routes throughout the tour. For lunch, since one of the guests wanted to eat ramen, we had lunch at a ramen restaurant recommended by the driver that had a parking lot where the taxi could park. Depending on the taxi driver, an extension fee may be charged if the tour exceeds six hours, so I explained the possibility of an extension fee to the guests in advance. However, the driver on this tour said that no extension fee would be required as long as we went over by no more than 30 minutes, so although we ran about 10 minutes over, the tour ended with no extension fee. As they were all part of one group, they moved at a pace that accommodated the person using the wheelchair. All of the requested destinations were popular spots with many tourists, and the guests were surprised by the large crowds. Below, the guide fee is listed as 22,000 JPY, but above it is listed as 20,000 JPY. Which is the correct information? Case Details Status: Guide Confirmed Booking Number: JGA-T80767138 Scheduled Date: 2024/11 Mon 08:30 Tour Name: Private Kyoto Tour with Government-Licensed Guide and Vehicle (Max 7 persons) Type: Private Guest Representative Name: (redacted) Guest Email Address: (redacted) Guest Phone Number: (redacted) Number of People: (redacted) Meeting Point: Hotel Dismissal Point: None Course Request: Kyoto city hotel ⇒ Kyoto sightseeing (guide accompanying) ⇒ Kyoto city hotel Preferred Vehicle: Van (Up to 7 PAX) Guide Time: 6 h Guide Fee: 22,000 JPY Guide Name: (redacted) Guide Name (Kana): (redacted) Nickname: Keiko Email Address: (redacted) Phone Number: (redacted)

    I am Keiko Ibuki, Goverment-Licensed Guide. I passed National Guide examination and registered in 2015. I started guiding job in 2016. I mainly guide Kansai area, especially Kyoto. From 2016 to 2019, I guided visitors from overseas about 50 days. In 2023, I guided visitors from overseas about 50 days. I passed 2nd grade of Kyoto Tourism and Culture examination in 2020. I passed National Examination for Certified Travel Supervisors in 1997. I can tailor my guided tour to meet your requirements. I would like to make your visit to Japan enjoyable and memorable.

    May 15, 2025
    Christine_M
    There are SO many choices…
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    There are SO…

    Dec 25, 2024
    Kerri_D
    World Heritage Sites in Kyoto
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Government-Licensed Guide and Vehicle (Max 7 persons)
    Well- planned, strong…

    Jul 31, 2024
    whyisthisneededthiss
    Kyoto tour
    Tripadvisor review: Private Kyoto Tour with Government-Licensed Guide and Vehicle (Max 7 persons)
    Our tour guide Keiko was great.…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1) 9:00 Meet up @ The Tokyo EDITION Toranomon (31F Front Desk, 4-1-1 Toranomon, Minato-ku, Tokyo)
    • 2) 9:30 Shinjuku Gyoen
    • 3) 10:30 Hanazono Shrine → Shinjuku Golden Gai
    • 4) 11:30 Shibuya <FLIPPER'S Shibuya (1F Jinnan Plaza Building, 1-15-5 Jinnan, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo)>
    • 5) 12:30 Lunch @ Miyazaki Cuisine Mansaku (6F Shibuya Hikarie, 2-21-1 Shibuya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo)
    • 6) 13:00 Meiji Jingu Gaien Ginkgo Avenue
    • 7) 14:30 Tea Ceremony Experience @ Tea Utensils Kakinuma (3-21-9 Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo)
    • 8) 16:00 Disband @ FUGLEN ASAKUSA (2-6-15 Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo)

    What's a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like for Guests Avoiding Crowds? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. In their detailed correspondence beforehand, they requested a tour that avoided Tsukiji, crowds, typical tourist spots, and Asakusa, noted a shellfish allergy, and expressed a wish to experience a tea ceremony. At the hotel meeting point, I reconfirmed the itinerary and explained that, since it was a Sunday, everywhere would be crowded, so we first visited Shinjuku Gyoen. The autumn foliage was only about 30% turned, and it was relatively quiet and easy to walk through. Since we had time to spare, I also showed them Shinjuku Golden Gai and Hanazono Shrine, which were not originally planned. In Shibuya, I guided them to a souffle pancake shop that one of the guests had wanted to visit, but there was already a line of visitors. We waited for a while but gave up, and I took them instead to a quiet Japanese restaurant in Hikarie for lunch (although it was an impromptu suggestion, the guests were satisfied). As we still had time before the tea ceremony experience, I took the opportunity to show them the ginkgo tree-lined avenue at Meiji Jingu Gaien. Finally, I guided them to a tea ceremony experience behind Asakusa (along the way, I also explained how to get to Kappabashi Kitchen Town, which they planned to visit the next day). After the experience, I mentioned the special evening viewing of Rikugien Garden, and since they showed interest, I explained that the gates close around 5 to 6 p.m. and described the route to Komagome Station. The guests said they would head to Rikugien after a short rest, so I guided them to a quiet cafe in Asakusa and we parted ways. The next day, I received a message via a messaging app saying they had enjoyed the evening view at Rikugien, which was a relief. I also introduced some spots in Tokyo and in Kyoto, which they planned to visit from Tuesday, that were likely to be less crowded.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayTokyo Metro Hibiya Line Kamiyacho Station~Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line Shinjuku-gyoemmae Station600JPY
    Section 2SubwayTokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line Shinjuku-sanchome Station~Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line Shibuya Station0JPY
    Section 3SubwayTokyo Metro Ginza Line Shibuya Station~Tokyo Metro Ginza Line Gaiemmae Station0JPY
    Section 4SubwayTokyo Metro Ginza Line Aoyama-itchome Station~Tokyo Metro Ginza Line Tawaramachi Station0JPY
    Total600JPY

    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!

    Sep 6, 2026
    Paullyb
    Highly professional and relaxed tour exceeding our expectations
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Tachi…

    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…

  • Naoshima Art Island in 1 Day Tour

    Naoshima Art Island in 1 Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1.07:30 Meet @ Hotel Takamatsu lobby
    • 2.08:12~09:02 Ferry from Takamatsu Port to Naoshima Miyanoura Port
    • 3.09:25~9:55 Yellow Pumpkin
    • 4.10:20~11:30 Chichu Art Museum
    • 5.11:45~12:30 Lee Ufan Museum, Valley Gallery
    • 6.12:45~13:15 Lunch @ Benesse House Museum Cafe
    • 7.13:15~14:50 Benesse House Museum and outdoor works
    • 8.15:15~15:50 Art House Project (Ishibashi, Gokaisho, Kadoya)
    • 9.16:05~16:40 Outdoor art works near Naoshima Miyanoura Port (Red Pumpkin)
    • 10.17:00~18:00 Ferry from Naoshima Miyanoura Port to Takamatsu Port
    • 11.18:00 Dismissal (Guests take a taxi to the hotel) @ Takamatsu Port

    Title: What Is a Private Day Tour of Naoshima Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. They had a cheerful and friendly disposition, and it was a pleasure to guide them. They were traveling around Japan, visiting Tokyo, Hakone, Hiroshima, Takamatsu, Naoshima, Kyoto, Osaka, and Tokyo again. In Kyoto, they were looking forward to attending a wedding. They mentioned that their home is located near a golf course and that golf balls sometimes fly onto their property. One of the guests is a fan of a well-known clothing brand, and it was interesting to see how widely that brand has spread across North America. Since they wanted to have Korean barbecue that evening, they asked me for a good place in Takamatsu, so I asked a friend who works at the tourist information office at Takamatsu Station and recommended a spot to them. I believe they were able to enjoy a full day on Naoshima.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusNaoshima Miyanoura Port~Tsutsujiso100JPY
    Section 2BusTsutsujiso~Nokyo-mae100JPY
    Section 3BusNokyo-mae~Naoshima Miyanoura Port100JPY
    Section 4FerryTakamatsu Port~Naoshima Miyanoura Port990JPY
    Total1,290JPY

    Hello. My name is Hisao Kaji. I was born in 1945. I was raised in Takamatsu City from 3 years old. So, I have been living in Takamatsu for around 75 years. I believe I know Takamatsu City and the Kagawa prefecture area very well. If you come to Takamatsu, Kagawa I think you can enjoy your tour with me. I started a Government Licensed Guide in 2019. So, I have been a licensed guide for about 5 years. My favorite destinations are Naoshima, Teshima, Ritsurin Garden, the top of Mt. Yashima and so on. I always show you an itinerary about one month before your tour date, and I will accept any questions, other favorite places you want to visit. Communicating with you, I would like to accommodate your request for your tour. I always listen to NPR on the internet to know how the world is moving and improve my English. I like conversation based upon it with my life. I stayed in the USA for 8 months for a Power Systems Engineering Course conducted by General Electric in New York State when I was 28 years old. I sometimes talk about my memory of those days with the guests. I am very happy to guide tourists because I can see the guests become happy and enjoy themselves when I am guiding better. Nothing is more wonderful than that. I welcome your visit to Takamatsu City and Kagawa Prefecture. I believe you will have a pleasant time through my guide.

    Apr 19, 2026
    2Pippin2
    Tripadvisor review: Naoshima Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A day to remember
    Perfect day! Our tour guide, Kaji,
    added so…

    Oct 23, 2025
    C
    Calli_C
    This was a great day tour…
    Viator review: Naoshima Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    This was a great day…

    Oct 12, 2025
    Vanessa_A
    Lovely day on Naoshima Island
    Viator review: Naoshima Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    It was great to relax and leave…

    Jun 1, 2025
    Pamela_F
    Highly recommend the half…
    Viator review: Okayama Half-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    Highly recommend the half day tour and our…

  • Kyoto: Arashiyama Bamboo Grove Path & Kyoto Station

    Kyoto: Arashiyama Bamboo Grove Path & Kyoto Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:45 Hotel Kyoto Sanjo
    • 10:30-10:45 Arashiyama Bamboo Grove Path
    • 11:15-12:45 Lunch (Katsukura, seated around 11:45)
    • 12:55-13:15 Ginkaku-ji Temple
    • 13:40-14:50 Walk from Ninenzaka, Sannenzaka, Kiyomizu-dera Temple to the west side of the Gojozaka intersection
    • 15:10-15:30 Nishiki Market Walk
    • 15:45 Kyoto Station

    Title: What Is a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like in Autumn? A Licensed Guide's Report on Arashiyama, Kiyomizu-dera, and Nishiki Market This was a private tour in Kyoto for a group visiting from North America, joined by another member of the group who is currently studying at a university in Tokyo. The itinerary was: Hotel → Bamboo Grove path in Arashiyama → lunch (a tonkatsu restaurant near Ginkaku-ji) → Ginkaku-ji → Ninen-zaka, Sannen-zaka, and Kiyomizu-dera → Nishiki Market → Kyoto Station. Originally, after Arashiyama the plan was to see Kinkaku-ji and have lunch in Gion (shabu-shabu or sukiyaki), but the day before, the group requested a change from Kinkaku-ji, which they had already visited the previous year, to another sightseeing spot, along with a request for tonkatsu for lunch, resulting in the itinerary above. During the tour, we were met with heavy traffic and large crowds in Kyoto during the autumn foliage season. At the tonkatsu restaurant for lunch, the reservation seats were fully booked, so I scheduled an early lunch and we arrived just after 11:00, but there were already two groups waiting. It took 30 minutes to be seated, but the guests waited calmly with pleasant expressions throughout. After visiting Kiyomizu-dera, to avoid traffic, I arranged to meet the vehicle not at a nearby parking lot but on the road west of the Gojo-zaka intersection, an unusual arrangement that required walking a somewhat long distance. The guests kindly cooperated and were pleased to have avoided the heavy congestion. They were very gentle and easygoing, which was a great help. The highlight of the day was the tonkatsu they had strongly requested. They also ordered crab cream croquettes, shrimp cutlets, and chawanmushi, and enjoyed everything looking very happy. When I explained that the restaurant's sauce is an original recipe made with Saikyo miso, they ended up purchasing a bottle of the sauce that was displayed next to the register at the end.

    My name is Masaki Kitagawa, a male in the middle of 50s living in Kyoto with my wife, son and three cats. While working for a local energy company on weekdays, I’ve been a tour guide on weekends since 2019 and enjoy interacting with people coming from different worlds. It is my great pleasure to help you make your excursion time-efficient and pleasant even during the high seasons in Kyoto. Considering your interests, preferences and priorities, I want to design and make your journey fruitful one. I’m thrilled to be contacted from you. Let’s explore Kyoto !

    Jun 3, 2026
    Nikki G
    Wonderful experience with a great guide!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Masaki was our guide through…

    May 24, 2026
    Pamela_C
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Perfect day in Kyoto with the best guide!…

    May 4, 2026
    TravelersHigh77
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Excellent English speaking guide for Kyoto
    Masaki was s wonderful and patient…

    Nov 29, 2025
    vsairamkumar
    Kyoto guided tour
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had great fun exploring Kyoto with Masaki San.…

  • Tokyo: Meiji Shrine & eyoko

    Tokyo: Meiji Shrine & eyoko

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meet at Hotel Grand Bach in Ginza
    • 10:10 Meiji Shrine
    • 11:00 Harajuku Takeshita Street
    • 11:50 Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 12:40 Lunch @ Otemachi Station (rice balls and sandwiches)
    • 13:20 Nezu Shrine
    • 13:50 Yanaka Temple Tour
    • 14:40 Ueno Toshogu Shrine
    • 15:10 The National Museum of Western Art
    • 15:40 Asakusa (Skytree photos)
    • 16:40 Ameyoko
    • 17:15 Disband at Kanda Station

    Tokyo Private Walking Tour Report: What Can You See in One Day from the Imperial Palace to Asakusa with a Licensed Guide? The weather was excellent throughout, which made for an enjoyable tour. The guests asked a great many questions about Japanese history and culture and showed strong interest. They had Mobile Suica, so getting around was smooth. When I first asked about the previous day's destinations, they said they had already visited the main keep of the Imperial Palace East Gardens, so we limited the East Gardens to the garden area only. At Meiji Shrine there were many questions about Shinto, shrines, and the Meiji Restoration. Takeshita Street in Harajuku was not part of the plan, but since our time at the Imperial Palace East Gardens was shorter, I added it on the spot. The guests were very interested in things like animal cafés and were delighted. After seeing the Imperial Palace East Gardens, the shops in Otemachi were all closed, so we bought rice balls and sandwiches at a convenience store and ate them on a bench on the station platform. When I taught them how to eat a nori-wrapped rice ball, they found it novel. This day there were many visitors for the Shichi-Go-San celebration, and the guests took many photos. In Yanaka I explained Buddhism, and at Toshogu Shrine I explained Tokugawa Ieyasu and the shrine. On the way, the guests noticed the Rodin sculptures at the National Museum of Western Art, so I guided them through the front garden and explained that the building is a World Heritage Site. In Asakusa we were able to get very beautiful photos of the Skytree. At Ameyoko they enjoyed the lively atmosphere and treated me to some Belgian sweets. At Ueno Hirokoji, the guests said they could get back to their hotel in Ginza on their own from there, but I saw them off to Kanda Station.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainGinza~Meiji-jingumae600JPY
    Section 2TrainMeiji-jingumae~Otemachi0JPY
    Section 3TrainOtemachi~Nezu0JPY
    Section 4TrainUeno~Asakusa0JPY
    Section 5TrainAsakusa~Ueno0JPY
    Section 6TrainUeno-hirokoji~Kanda0JPY
    Total600JPY

    My name is Eiji Kobayashi (Mr.), and I will be your guide during your stay in Tokyo.
    Please call me Koba.
    Allow me to introduce myself. I am a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter of Japan and an expert in Japanese history and culture, and also in nursing and health. I usually work as a Public Health Nurse (PHN) at a Public Health Center in Tokyo, and I hold a Registered Nurse (RN) license. Additionally, I have a Ph.D. in medical science.
    Born in 1957 and raised in Tokyo, I have worked for 33 years mainly in the research and development area for some pharmaceutical companies. Then, I changed my career to nursing and entered a university to obtain a PHN and RN license. I took the Licensed Guide for preparation for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and volunteered in the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2021.

    Jul 21, 2026
    scottsD8777AR
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Great Touring Tokyo
    Koba is an excellent tour guide. We greatly…

    Jul 9, 2026
    Quest36994121691
    First visit to Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    This was our first visit…

    Jul 8, 2026
    Χρονης Π
    A beautiful tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    It was a perfect experience…

    Jul 5, 2026
    I3699SBjonathanw
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    6hr Tokyo guide great experience
    Koba was so nice to my family…