Category: Uncategorized

  • Ishikawa in Half a Day: Kenrokuen Garden & Higashi Chaya District

    Ishikawa in Half a Day: Kenrokuen Garden & Higashi Chaya District

    Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    September, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 13:00　Meet in front of the Kanazawa Station Tourist Information Center
    • 13:30　Kenrokuen Garden
    • 14:10 Kanazawa Castle
    • 15:10　Higashi Chaya District
    • 16:45　Disband at Kanazawa Station

    # What Is a Private Kanazawa Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report I guided a group visiting from Oceania. Since the main contact had injured a foot, they mentioned they would rest inside at each sightseeing spot. At Kenrokuen Garden, we all took a commemorative photo together at the most famous spot, the Kotoji Lantern, including the person who was resting. Everyone enjoyed the Japanese garden that imitates nature. They were also impressed by the pine trees with their beautifully shaped branches. Due to time constraints, we only viewed Kanazawa Castle from the outside, but they took interest in features such as the box-shaped defensive structure of the Ishikawa Gate. While waiting at the bus stop heading toward Higashi Chaya District, I mentioned that Kanazawa Curry, a katsu curry dish, is famous in Kanazawa. When I explained that "katsu" also means "to win," and that athletes often eat katsu curry or katsu-don before a match to win, it was a big hit with them. In the Higashi Chaya District, we entered Shima, and they were interested in the room where geisha danced and the various tools on display. After walking around and explaining the street, we enjoyed gold-leaf soft-serve ice cream before heading back. Whenever we took a group photo, everyone gave a cheerful "cheese" and got right into the mood.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassKanazawa Station～Hashiba-cho800JPY
    Total800JPY

    Tour Report by Sho

    I majored in civil engineering at a college and am interested in historical infrastructures. I have also guided foreign people around Ishikawa Prefecture, Toyama Prefecture, Gifu Prefecture, and Fukui Prefecture as an international activity of an English circle. I was a volunteer interpreter at the training camp for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games in 2021.

    Hokuriku region has a lot of sightseeing spots as follows, beautiful landscapes like Kenrokuen Garden and Tateyama, tasty food like traditional Kaga dishes and fresh seafood from Toyama Bay, traditional crafts like Kaga Yuzen dyeing, Takaoka copperware, and Inami woodcarving. I introduce these spots and historical infra tourism such as Kurobe dam and industrial tourism.

    I also work as a translator. I translated the Japanese firefly squid tourism pamphlet into English in 2020.

    https://www.linkedin.com/in/shoten-sasaki/

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    May 26, 2026
    C4211GUbrittanym
    Tripadvisor review: Toyama 6hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Great time in Toyama!
    Nice tour, guide was very nice and…

    May 14, 2026
    190kariml
    Great tour in Kanazawa with Sho
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa 4hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    We had a wonderful time…

    Jul 24, 2025
    Wander60650705961
    Delightful experience um Kanazawa
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa 4hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    We had the pleasure of taking a…

    Jul 2, 2025
    nuttineeyav
    Walking day in Kanazawa
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa 4hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    The old town was very nice to…

  • Kyoto in 1 Day from Osaka: Customized Tour

    Kyoto in 1 Day from Osaka: Customized Tour

    Kyoto in 1 Day from Osaka: Customized Tour, Licensed Guide

    September, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 8:30 Meet up @Tempozan
    • 2. 9:45 @Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 3. 11:15 @Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
    • 4. 11:45 Lunch @Ogura Chaya
    • 5. 13:30 @Kinkaku-ji
    • 6. 14:15 @Nijo Castle
    • 7. 16:15 Disband @Osaka Port

    What Can You See on a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests requested Fushimi Inari Taisha, Kinkaku-ji, the Arashiyama bamboo grove, Nijo Castle, and, if possible, lunch at a teahouse. Since the guests said even a touch-and-go pace was fine, I created an itinerary designed to fulfill every one of their requests. Along the way, I kept the guests informed and consulted with them, saying things like "we are running a little behind schedule," and they were very cooperative. As the guests had never ridden the Shinkansen before, I explained it to them, and when I did, they said, "We would love to ride it — and a round trip would be great." So I quickly changed the plan to use the Keihan train and then the Shinkansen. The guests covered the guide's limited express fare. I was truly glad that we were able to fulfill all of their requests as planned. The guests were delighted, and I received an A+ from one of the guests.

    Click here for more details: Kyoto in 1 Day from Osaka: Customized Tour, Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayOsaka Port～Shin-Osaka290JPY
    Section 2TrainShin-Osaka～Inari770JPY
    Section 3TrainInari～Saga-Arashiyama240JPY
    Section 4SubwayNijojo-mae～Kyoto260JPY
    Section 5TrainKyoto～Shin-Osaka580JPY
    Section 6SubwayShin-Osaka～Osaka Port290JPY
    Total2,430JPY

    Tour Report by YUKA

    Hi! My name is YUKA. I’ve got the government license in 2018 and joined a half year traning to do the guide. But a half year later I started my carreer, Covid came. I should have given up guiding. During the Covid, I’ve read many books and made my own materials to explain Japanese culture, history, etc. I love guiding because the guests expand my horizon all the time and let me know their own country and culture, etc. It is really important for us all to know each other and respect each other to make this world peace. Thank you for coming to Japan! Let’s enjoy Japan together!

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    Jul 25, 2026
    Ann W
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Early Morning Customized Tour with Licensed Guide
    One of the highlights of my trip, perfect for solo…

    Jul 14, 2026
    Elizabeth W
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Hidden Gems Off the Beaten Path Tour, Licensed Guide
    Great tour
    We had a great tour with…

    Jul 11, 2026
    Dianna-fam
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Wonderful Tour, Wonderful Guide!
    My teenage boys and I…

    Jul 1, 2026
    Christian_L
    Viator review: Kyoto Early Morning Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kyoto visite with Yuka : Wow !
    Wow ! Yuka was…

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    September, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 8:00 Meet up @ MIMARU Kyoto Kawaramachi
    • 2. 8:30 Guided tour of Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 3. 10:00 Guided tour of Tenryu-ji Temple
    • 4. 10:30 Guided tour of the Bamboo Grove, Kameyama Park, and Togetsukyo Bridge
    • 5. 12:30 Guided tour of Ryoan-ji Temple
    • 6. 13:30 Guided tour of Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 7. 14:00 Disband @ Kinkaku-ji Taxi Stand

    What Does a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour by Train and Taxi Look Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guests were a group visiting from Oceania. We met at the Hotel at 8:00 as scheduled, and after discussing the day's itinerary, we decided to visit Fushimi Inari, Tenryu-ji, Arashiyama, Ryoan-ji, Kinkaku-ji, and Kiyomizu-dera. We traveled to Fushimi Inari by the nearest Keihan train line, where I explained the torii gates of Inari Shrine, the connection with foxes, the Shinto style of worship, and the Senbon Torii path. The weather today was comfortable, with cooler temperatures and an autumn breeze, making it perfect for sightseeing. The next destination after Inari was Arashiyama, but due to a track problem on the San'in Line our departure from Kyoto Station was delayed; nevertheless, we arrived at Arashiyama safely and I guided them through Tenryu-ji. I showed them the rock garden, the strolling garden, and the botanical garden at Tenryu-ji, and while they enjoyed the beautiful gardens we moved on to the bamboo grove. There we walked through the tunnel of bamboo while taking many photos, then passed through Kameyama Park to reach the Togetsukyo Bridge, taking our time to savor the scenery along the way. Because of the limited time, we traveled from Arashiyama to Ryoan-ji by taxi. At Ryoan-ji, I explained the teachings of Zen Buddhism and the lessons drawn from the rock garden as we strolled through the grounds, completing our visit. We then moved to the next destination, Kinkaku-ji, by taxi. At Kinkaku-ji, I guided them around the vividly golden Rokuon-ji temple, which they thoroughly enjoyed. However, as this marked the end of the guiding time, I explained the highlights of Kiyomizu-dera and we parted ways. Finally, I arranged a taxi there so the guests could travel to Kiyomizu-dera. Although today's travel was planned using public transportation, one of the guests suddenly mentioned being unable to take the bus, so we ended up relying mainly on trains and taxis.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKeihan Kiyomizu-Gojo Station～Fushimi Inari Station220JPY
    Section 2TrainJR Inari Station～Saga-Arashiyama Station240JPY
    Total460JPY

    Tour Report by Toshi

    After a rather long teaching experience at Japanese college, I converted my career about 6 years ago into working as a tour guide for the tourists visiting Japan.
    As my career overseas, I’ve been in the UN and the Japanese Embassy, all in the USA, totaling more than 6 years.
    And then I had made a big change in my career from a diplomat to an academic researcher. For that career to achieve, I studied abroad and won a doctorate degree in linguistics from Indiana University and landed a teaching position at college in Japan.
    With all these interesting and exciting experiences I’ve made myself ready to enrich your tour and make it both enjoyable and worthwhile.

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    Apr 26, 2026
    39ferdinandr
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Exceptional and entertaining
    Great tour better the tour guide Toshi.

    Apr 9, 2026
    X1429XKclaudiam
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Sehr zu empfehlen
    Wir haben als Familie diese 6-stundige Tour durch Kyoto…

    Jun 28, 2025
    WilliamAlfonso_R
    Toshi is a very eloquent, knowledgeable, and diligent tour guide.
    Viator review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Toshi was…

    May 30, 2025
    Z
    ZevP5
    Best Tour Guide!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Yoshi was the best guide!! He was so…

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    September, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Hotel meetup　8:30 Fushimi Inari　10:30 Arashiyama Bamboo Grove　　11:10 Short break　　12:30 Kinkaku-ji　14:00 Sanjusangen-do　　14:40 Tour ends

    What Is a Private Kyoto Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Arashiyama and Sanjusangendo The guest was visiting Japan for the second time from Africa. The guest mentioned that their ancestors came from Europe, but it was a long time ago and the details were unclear. While traveling through countries in Asia before coming to Japan, the guest seemed to have had a stomach upset and joined the tour without breakfast. There were moments of concern when the guest needed to spend a long time at the restroom along the way, but they were able to continue the tour to the end. During the guiding, the guest often asked questions unrelated to the sites we were visiting, which made it a little difficult to keep up my rhythm. There were even some points I was unable to fully explain. The guest asked many questions across a wide range of topics, including Japanese daily life, education, history, politics, and food. Partly because of this, the tour fell considerably behind schedule. The tour concluded after we viewed the Buddhist statues at Sanjusangendo. Afterward, the guest strolled alone through the garden in front of Sanjusangendo and headed toward Kiyomizu-dera. It was good that their condition seemed to improve in the afternoon. The photo was taken at the bamboo grove in Arashiyama.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainGion-Shijo～Fushimi Inari220JPY
    Section 2TrainInari～Saga-Arashiyama240JPY
    Section 3TrainRanden Arashiyama～Kitano-Hakubaicho250JPY
    Section 4BusKitano-Hakubaicho～Kinkaku-ji-michi230JPY
    Section 5BusKinkaku-ji-michi～Nishioji-Oike230JPY
    Section 6SubwayNishioji-Oike～Higashiyama260JPY
    Section 7BusHigashiyama-Sanjo～Sanjusangen-do-mae230JPY
    Total1,660JPY

    Tour Report by KAZU

    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.

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    Jul 24, 2026
    Trail65429092687
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto Tour
    Kazua Sumi is a very accomplished guide.He has deep…

    Jul 23, 2026
    489caelinp
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto Guided Tour
    My friend and I had a great experience…

    Jul 16, 2026
    margaretsM7923ON
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Great way to see Kyoto
    Wonderful tour and exceptional guide.

    Jul 9, 2026
    Sandra_B
    Kazuo was great and…
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Kazuo was great and provided…

  • Osaka in Half a Day: Osaka Castle & Dotonbori

    Osaka in Half a Day: Osaka Castle & Dotonbori

    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    September, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:30 Meet @ Tempozan Passenger Terminal
    • 10:15 @ Osaka Castle (exterior only)
    • 12:30 @ Shitennoji Temple
    • 13:15 @ Dotonbori
    • 13:30 Disband @ Dotonbori

    Title: What Is a Private Osaka Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Osaka Castle, Shitennoji, and Dotonbori The group moved through the itinerary smoothly. At each spot, the guests looked around with great interest and curiosity. One of the guests in particular observed everything very attentively and took many photographs. At Osaka Castle, the visit was limited to viewing from the outside, but the guests were very satisfied with its beauty and grandeur. They also purchased souvenirs at the adjacent "Miraiza" facility. At Shitennoji Temple, one of the guests offered prayers with great sincerity. In Dotonbori, the guests took great interest in and enjoyed the famous large billboards such as the "Glico" sign and "Kani Doraku," as well as the digital monitor of Meiji. As the guests wished to have "okonomiyaki" for lunch, I introduced a restaurant, explained the transportation for their return trip, and we then parted ways. I felt that the guests had a very favorable impression of Japan. One of the guests especially enjoyed jokes, and as a guide who also enjoys humor, our conversation flowed well, and I was able to spend a very enjoyable time as a guide.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayOsaka Port～Morinomiya290JPY
    Section 2TrainMorinomiya～Tennoji170JPY
    Section 3SubwayShitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka～Nipponbashi190JPY
    Total650JPY

    Tour Report by Yama

    Dear my guests,

    This is (Mr.) Yama, greeting from Kobe, Japan.
    I would like to warmly welcome you to Japan this time. I am from the city of Kobe, which is of course, well-known for very tasty Kobe Beef . You can taste
    real genuine Kobe Beef here. Kobe is also called “Home of Japanese Sake” with lots of Sake breweries, and I recommend you would visit those breweries
    if you have any interest in Japanese Sake as well as one aspect of Japanese cultures. Of course, you can have tastings of various kinds of Sake there.

    Whenever during the tour, I always try to make it safe, pleasant and comfortable for all of the guests, which is my first priority. I am very much confident
    that you can have a pleasant and unforgettable experience in Japan. Just tell me about your preference; what you would like to like to see, have, know
    and eat and so on. Particularly, I hold the license for cooking qualified by the government here and maybe, I can reply you for questions related to the
    foods here. In this respect, I strongly recommend you would try not only famous Japanese cuisine such as Sushi, Tempura or Suki-yaki but some
    Japanese traditional local foods, like Tako-yaki, Okonomi-yaki and Kushkatsu. They are sometimes called the soul foods of Japan. Here is the brief
    explanation for these three foods.

    1) Tako-yaki
    Tako-yaki is a snack filled with pieces of octopus in a batter of flour , egg and soup stock. You can call them octopus dumplings or balls. “Tako” means
    octopus and “yaki” means grilled or broiled.
    2) Okonomi-yaki
    This word Okonomi-yaki means “cook just as you like” and you can use whatever you like as toppings, such as beef, pork, shrimp, squid and octopus.
    Okonomi-yaki is round shape and just like pancakes or pizza in shape mainly made from egg, flour and water.
    3) Kushi-katsu
    Kushi-katsu is skewered cutlet or deep-fried foods on a stick. “Kushi” means skewer and “katsu” means cutlet. Various kinds of foods are used for
    ingredients such as beef, pork, chicken, shrimp, squid, octopus and lots of kinds of vegetables.

    Actually, the western Japan including Osaka, Kobe and Himeji is called as “Home of such local soul foods”. You should give it a try and I am sure
    that you like them very much.

    I sincerely hope that I can be your tour guide this time in Kobe, Osaka and Himeji. If my guests said to me after the tour, “I have had a very good
    and pleasant time with you today. I hope I can come here again and name you as our guide”, which is my great pleasure. Moreover, I would be
    great honored if they say “I like Japan now thanks to you”.

    Looking forward to meeting you soon here.
    Doomo Arigato Gozaimasu!
    Yama

    Request Booking

    Jul 25, 2026
    Hdixjdixj
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Local Food & Culture Tour in 1 Day, Licensed Guide
    Amazing Food Tour through Osaka
    We were taken…

    Jul 20, 2026
    Eric_W
    Viator review: Himeji Castle & Koko-en in 1 Day Tour with Licensed Guide
    Castle journey worth your time!
    Our tour with…

    Jul 13, 2026
    Diane_B
    Viator review: Kobe Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Our tour guide Yama was amazing!!
    Our tour guide…

    Jul 4, 2026
    Navigator661725
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A wonderful time!
    We absolutely loved this tour. Yama was attentive, was…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    September, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 10:00 The Ritz-Carlton Tokyo
    • 2. 10:20 Nijubashi Bridge, Statue of Kusunoki Masashige, Midtown Hibiya
    • 3. 12:00 Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple, Outer Market
    • 4. 13:40 Hamarikyu Gardens
    • 5. 15:00 Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center, Sensoji Temple
    • 6. 16:00 Dismissal @ Asakusa Taxi Stand

    What Is a Private Tokyo Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Hibiya, Tsukiji, Hamarikyu, and Asakusa The guests were a group visiting from North America, and they were cheerful and kind. When I helped them add PASMO to their Apple Wallet, the credit card was not accepted, but when we tried Suica, the payment went through successfully. The same thing had happened recently with another guest. While relaxing on a sofa in the Park View Garden at Tokyo Midtown Hibiya, we received a request for coverage from a television program, and the guests happily agreed to be interviewed — a delightful and unexpected moment. At Tsukiji, they enjoyed a great deal, including tuna, shumai, satsuma-age, melon, menchi-katsu, beer, and ice cream. They also savored the matcha and sweets at Hamarikyu. Since they seemed tired from walking by the time we were at Hamarikyu, we took a taxi to Asakusa. At Sensoji Temple they drew omikuji fortunes, and unusually got very good results — "great blessing" and "blessing." As they wished to take a taxi back to their accommodation as well, we parted ways at the taxi stand. We were able to talk about many things, and I had a wonderful time.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayRoppongi～Kasumigaseki180JPY
    Section 2SubwayHibiya～Tsukiji180JPY
    Total360JPY

    Tour Report by Takako

    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!!

    Request Booking

    Jul 21, 2026
    Z222TCshannonr
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    6 hour guided tour of Tokyo
    Our wonderful guide,…

    Jul 9, 2026
    cronima2
    Perfectly guided day
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had an amazing day with…

    Jul 3, 2026
    johnoD792VT
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Lovely Guide!
    Takako was an amazing guide! She gave strong insights on…

    Jul 3, 2026
    71nidhim
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo Tour
    Takako was extremely knowledgeable and showed us all the main…

  • Himeji Castle & Koko-en in 1 Day Tour

    Himeji Castle & Koko-en in 1 Day Tour

    Himeji Castle & Koko-en in 1 Day Tour with Licensed Guide

    September, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 09:00 Meet @ Himeji Station Central Ticket Gate
    • 2. 09:05 @ Castle View
    • 3. 09:40 @ Himeji Castle
    • 4. 11:40 @ Kokoen Garden
    • 5. 12:10 Lunch @ Kassuiken
    • 6. 13:50 @ Mount Shosha Engyoji Temple (Maniden, Daikodo, Jogyodo, Jikido)
    • 7. 16:00 Dismissal @ Himeji Station

    Title: What's a Private Day Tour of Himeji Castle and Mount Shosha Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guests were visiting Japan for the first time, from North America. After meeting at Himeji Station, we went to the Castle View, where I explained the historical background of the construction of Himeji Castle, and purchased discount round-trip tickets for the bus and ropeway to the Mount Shosha Ropeway Station. We then visited Himeji Castle, Kokoen Garden, and Engyoji Temple on Mount Shosha, before ending the tour at Himeji Station. Although this was the guests' first visit to Japan, they had arrived in early August and had already traveled to many tourist destinations, including Hokkaido and the Tohoku region, as well as the Kanto, Hokuriku and Chubu areas, Hiroshima, and the Kansai region. They had a strong interest in Japanese architecture, castles, and history, and were very knowledgeable. They spoke enthusiastically about Japan, including the currently popular streaming drama "SHOGUN." The guests thoroughly enjoyed the tour, though they did seem a little tired after several consecutive days of sightseeing.

    Click here for more details: Himeji Castle & Koko-en in 1 Day Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Bus[Shinki Bus Kokoen-mae] Station～[Shinki Bus Shosha] Station310JPY
    Section 2Bus[Engyoji Microbus Round Trip (Shinnojo Ropeway Summit Station～Maniden]500JPY
    Section 3Bus[Shinki Bus Shosha] Station～[Shinki Bus Himeji Station-mae] Station310JPY
    Total1,120JPY

    Tour Report by Norio

    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!

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    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…

    May 30, 2026
    karenpG5549XU
    Loved our tour
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a great tour with Norio, would highly…

    May 28, 2026
    TrailBlazer741528
    Kobe Variety.
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our delightful guide, Norio, was knowledgeable and a master at…

    May 23, 2026
    sarahpR5911DJ
    Himeji castle with Norio
    Tripadvisor review: Himeji Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We learnt lots about Himeji castle and it…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & East Ginza

    Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & East Ginza

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    September, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at Hotel Yaenomidori Tokyo (Was waiting early in the lobby when the guest spoke to me, so the tour started 30 minutes early)
    • 9:35 Commemorative photo in front of the Hachiko statue in Shibuya, Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • 10:20 Meiji Shrine
    • 11:10 Takeshita Street
    • 12:20 Asakusa Nakamise Street, Senso-ji Temple
    • 14:15 Lunch "Tsukiji Sushisei Shinkan"
    • 15:10 Stroll around East Ginza
    • 15:30 Disband near "Kabukiza Theatre"

    Title: What Can You See on a One-Day Private Tour of Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests arrived in Japan the day before from Oceania. Their stay in Tokyo was just this one day, and the next day they would stay overnight in Hakone, after which they planned to visit Kyoto, Hyogo (Himeji Castle), Hiroshima, and Kanazawa. I waited in the lobby of the guests' Hotel about an hour before the meeting time. As the guests were heading to breakfast, they called out to me, "Are you Bruce?" (they had apparently checked the guide's profile photo). They requested to finish lunch early and start the tour 30 minutes earlier, so we began the tour at 9:00. Through prior email correspondence, since they would be visiting many shrines and temples in Kyoto, the only shrine or temple planned for Tokyo was Sensoji Temple. However, before heading to Takeshita Street, one of their desired destinations, they showed interest in the first torii gate of Meiji Shrine, so I adjusted part of the itinerary and guided them to Meiji Shrine first.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainTokyo Metro Hibiya Line Hatchobori～Tokyo Metro Ginza Line Shibuya Station210JPY
    Section 2TrainJR Yamanote Line Shibuya Station～JR Yamanote Line Harajuku Station150JPY
    Section 3TrainJR Yamanote Line Harajuku Station～JR Chuo Line Kanda Station180JPY
    Section 4TrainTokyo Metro Ginza Line Kanda Station～Tokyo Metro Ginza Line Asakusa Station180JPY
    Section 5TrainTokyo Metro Ginza Line Asakusa Station～Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line Tsukiji Station210JPY
    Total930JPY

    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).

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    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…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    September, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1) 10:00 Meet @ Citadines Central Shinjuku Tokyo (1-2-9 Kabukicho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo)
    • 2) 10:10 Shinjuku Golden Gai → Hanazono Shrine → Shinjuku-sanchome Station (Exit E2)
    • 3) 11:00 Omotesando → Harakado/Tokyu Plaza → Cat Street → Harajuku Takeshita Street → KIDDY LAND
    • 4) 14:00 Imperial Palace Main Gate Nijubashi
    • 5) 14:30 Lunch @ Tai Shio Soba Toka KITTE Marunouchi (5F KITTE Marunouchi, 2-7-2 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo)
    • 6) 15:30 Akihabara <Radio Kaikan・Mandarake>
    • 7) 16:10 Disband @ JR Akihabara Station

    What's a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like for an Anime Fan? A Licensed Guide's Report on Harajuku, the Imperial Palace, and Akihabara [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide led a private one-day Tokyo tour for a guest visiting from Europe. According to advance communication, the guest wanted to visit the Imperial Palace, Harajuku, and Akihabara (an anime fan) and to do some shopping. Since three locations alone would leave plenty of extra time, after departing from the hotel in Shinjuku, I first guided the guest to Golden Gai and Hanazono Shrine. I learned that this was the guest's fourth visit to Japan, that the previous visit had been before the pandemic, and that the guest had stayed in Shibuya and Ueno before. The guest also mentioned having visited Akihabara the day before without finding the desired figure, and hoped to look at a different store today if possible. Since many shops open after 11:00 on weekdays, I first guided the guest to the three malls at the Jingumae intersection on Omotesando (Harakado, Tokyu Plaza Omotesando, and Laforet Harajuku) and Cat Street. Once it was 11:00, I guided the guest to Takeshita Street, and at the Sanrio CUTE CUBE HARAJUKU store the guest purchased a souvenir for a family member. Next we entered an anime store in Harajuku, where the guest bought several items including Ghibli goods. The guest showed no particular interest in animal cafes, sweets, or light meals. At the Uniqlo Harajuku store, the guest bought a T-shirt with a traditional craftsman motif for themselves. Since the guest seemed to like character goods such as Hello Kitty, I headed back toward Omotesando to guide the guest to KIDDY LAND (to save time, we took the subway even though it was only one stop). The guest wanted a Hello Kitty handkerchief, which was not for sale, but was able to buy a Ghibli handkerchief instead, which worked out well. At the Imperial Palace, I guided the guest to the main gate and Nijubashi bridge, where we took photos, and the guest seemed to enjoy the atmosphere. For lunch, I guided the guest to a restaurant in the KITTE building near Tokyo Station, where the guest ordered ramen and a beer. Since the guest was traveling alone, I sat with them, but as I had a sore throat with the change of season, I limited myself to ice cream, which was easy on the throat. We headed to Akihabara by JR line and stopped by Radio Kaikan and Mandarake, but the desired figure could not be found (even after asking staff), and the guest seemed a little disappointed. We took photos at JR Akihabara Station and parted ways there. The guest could already manage a good deal of Japanese greetings and was a dedicated anime fan, whose enthusiasm was impressive.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayTokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line Shinjuku-sanchome Station～Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line Meiji-jingumae Station180JPY
    Section 2SubwayTokyo Metro Chiyoda Line Meiji-jingumae Station～Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line Omotesando Station180JPY
    Section 3SubwayTokyo Metro Chiyoda Line Meiji-jingumae Station～Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line Nijubashimae Station210JPY
    Section 4TrainJR Keihin-Tohoku Line Tokyo Station～JR Keihin-Tohoku Line Akihabara Station150JPY
    Total720JPY

    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…

  • Osaka in Half a Day: Umeda Sky Building & Osaka Castle

    Osaka in Half a Day: Umeda Sky Building & Osaka Castle

    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    September, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:20 Meeting point: In front of Tempozan Cruise Ship Terminal
    • 11:00 Sightseeing ①: Umeda Sky Building
    • 12:20 Sightseeing ②: Osaka Castle
    • 13:30 ※ The guest was not feeling well, so after finishing the Osaka Castle sightseeing, we parted ways and saw them off (they returned to the cruise ship by taxi)

    Title: What Is a 4-Hour Private Osaka Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Umeda Sky Building and Osaka Castle The guests were part of a group visiting Japan while traveling by cruise ship from North America. All prior communication and itinerary discussions were handled through one member of the group. For the 4-hour course, the guests left the planning almost entirely up to me as the guide, and they readily agreed to my initial proposal of Umeda Sky Building, Osaka Castle, and Dotonbori with lunch. This was the group with whom the itinerary was finalized in the shortest amount of time in my entire career as a guide. On the day of the tour in September, it was the second day after the weather had suddenly begun to cool, making the climate far more comfortable than before. Our morning meeting went perfectly in terms of timing, and we met right away in front of the giant Ferris wheel. The guests were a very pleasant group, close in age to me, and we quickly warmed up to one another and enjoyed conversation. We had planned to use public transportation as a rule, but before departing we confirmed that taxis might also be used depending on the guests' needs. To reach our first destination, Umeda Sky Building, we transferred between the subway and JR lines, got off at Osaka Station, and walked to the building that towers right in front of the station. From the observation area on the top floor, we looked out over the whole city of Osaka while I explained the city's geographical features, its development as a commercial and industrial hub, and its history. Both of the guests asked many questions and deepened their understanding of Osaka. For the trip to the next stop, Osaka Castle, one of the guests was not feeling well due to back discomfort, so we decided to take a taxi. When we arrived at Osaka Castle, the elevator in the main keep unfortunately happened to be out of order, so we had to climb the stairs from the lower floors. Keeping an eye on the guest's condition, we proceeded by going up one floor at a time and viewing and explaining that floor. However, reaching the very top proved difficult, and we concluded our visit to Osaka Castle after seeing up to the third floor. After leaving Osaka Castle, the three of us discussed whether to proceed to the final stop, Dotonbori, and one of the guests candidly expressed a wish to end the day there and return to the ship. Naturally, respecting that wish, we decided to stop the tour and head back to the ship. The guest's physical condition had not been raised during our prior communication, but I was reminded once again how extremely important it is to make on-the-spot judgments when guiding older guests. It was a shame that they could not enjoy the final part of the itinerary, but being able to make the correct decision that "the guests' health comes first" was an important lesson. Also, during the train and taxi rides, we spent an enjoyable time talking about our families and our respective work, and it was a very pleasant guiding experience.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayOsaka Port～Bentencho240JPY
    Section 2TrainBentencho～Osaka170JPY
    Total410JPY

    Tour Report by Nori

    Hi, everyone! I’m Norifumi Kamon, a government registered guide interpreter. Please call me “Nori”, or “Kamon-san”.
    Let me introdece myself. I was born on April 17th in 1952 in Miyazaki prefecture in Kyushu island. I used to be an English teacher of Osaka Prefectural high school. When I retired from a teacher ten years ago, I decided to get a professional guide license. I wanted to play a role of the bridge between Japanese people and the people from all over the world as a second life of mine. After two years efforts, I finally got the guide license. Since then, I have guided several handreds of foreign people mainly in Kyoto and Nara for about five years except Corona Pandemic period. Almost all the tourists were deeply impressed by the beauty of nature, traditoin, culture, and art of Japan. I can surely help you enjoy and be satisfied with the sightseeing in Japan. And I’m looking forward to seeing you soon.

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    Apr 9, 2026
    Ron_W
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We saw so much in the…
    We saw so much in the…

    Mar 24, 2026
    zackn719
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Knowledgeable guide and a great tour
    We did our private tour with…

    Oct 20, 2025
    66speech
    Highlights of Kyoto.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great experience with Nori. Nori exceeded our expectations with…

    Oct 16, 2025
    Michael_H
    Thoroughly enjoyed the…
    Viator review: Osaka Off the Beaten Path 6hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Thoroughly enjoyed the day out…