Category: Uncategorized

  • Toyosu Tuna Auction & Tsukiji Local Food Tour

    Toyosu Tuna Auction & Tsukiji Local Food Tour

    Toyosu Tuna Auction & Tsukiji Local Food Tour, Licensed Guide

    September, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1.5:00 Hotel
    • 2.525 Toyosu shijo & Tuna Auction + Sushi Breakfast
    • 3.6:30 Intermediate Building bought Grape & Melon
    • 4.7:00 Yurikamome Shijoumae to Shiodome
    • 5.7:30 Shiodome-Tsukiji Shijo Shijo sight seeing
    • 6.8:30 Tsukiji SHijo – Tsukiji Honganji – Hotel
    • 7.9:00 Finish at the Hotel

    Title: What Is a Private Tsukiji and Waterfront Tour in Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report There were many questions, particularly from one of the guests who is studying a little Japanese. They were amazed by the large amount of tuna. Afterward, we had breakfast at a sushi restaurant, and for one of the guests, miso soup and rice were specially prepared. At the intermediate wholesalers' building, the guests wanted to buy dried scallops but gave up because it was cash only (20,000 yen), and instead purchased Shine Muscat grapes and melon. They mentioned that these are very expensive in Asia. On the Yurikamome line, the guests enjoyed the scenery of Odaiba, saw the Hayao Miyazaki mechanical clock in Shiodome, and then headed to the Tsukiji market. At Tsukiji Uogashi, they were excited by the blocks of tuna, the variety of seafood, and more. They looked around the shops and then I walked them back to the Hotel. Everyone seemed very satisfied.

    Click here for more details: Toyosu Tuna Auction & Tsukiji Local Food Tour, Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShijomae～Shiodome388JPY
    Section 2SubwayShiodome～Tsukiji Shijo178JPY
    Total566JPY

    Tour Report by Kazu

    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.

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    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 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　10:30　Meet at hotel (The Rykan Hostel Gion)
    • ②　10:40　Explanation about the history of Kyoto
    • ③　11:15　Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • ④　13:00　Stroll around Nishiki Market・Lunch
    • ⑤　14:00　Shopping on Teramachi Street
    • ⑥　14:45　Pontocho～Gion stroll～Yasui Konpira Shrine～Sannenzaka
    • ⑦　16:00　Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • ⑧　17:00　Disband (in front of Kiyomizu-dera Temple)

    What Is a Private Kyoto Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America, visiting Kyoto for the first time. Today's route was decided according to the guests' wishes. They were very easygoing, and asked with great interest not only about the history of Kyoto but also about the structure of present-day Japanese society and views on religion. While answering their questions, they in turn shared various aspects of contemporary society in their home region, including their own personal impressions. For example, we discussed how gun violence is perceived in their society. Such conversations were so interesting that I kept asking questions, and we ended up running slightly over time. No transportation expenses were advanced.

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

    Tour Report by Kazu

    Hello, this is Kazu Akiyama, your tour guide. Nice to meet you and welcome to Japan. Thank you for joining me on the tour. Now I am a retired salaried worker, living in Osaka. I have been very much interested in not only learning Japanese history, culture, religion myself, but also talking about them (sometimes going off topics) in English with tourists from all over the world as well. I am so excited being with you as your guide on coming day! I am very much looking forward to you enjoying with me visiting the must-see places and some of the hidden gems. See you soon. Thank you – Kazu Akiyama

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    Jul 29, 2026
    James_G
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Great guide and very…
    Great guide and very knowledgeable.…

    Jul 13, 2026
    peterhR6472GA
    Kyoto highlights with Kazu.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    A wonderful day with Kazu…

    Jul 12, 2026
    cgalvez73
    Fantastic tour guide
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Our guide in Kyoto was Kazu.…

    Jun 23, 2026
    Winni_H
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Highly recommended when in Kyoto
    Our tour guide…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Shinjuku Station & Shimokitazawa Station

    Tokyo in One Day: Shinjuku Station & Shimokitazawa Station

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    September, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00 Meeting point: BELLUSTAR TOKYO, Hotel
    • Shinjuku West Exit Station Tourist Information Center
    • World Currency Shop
    • 11:40 Depart Shinjuku Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line)
    • 11:50 Arrive Shinjuku-gyoemmae Station
    • Shinjuku Gyoen Shinjuku Gyoen
    • 13:00 Depart Shinjuku-gyoemmae Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line)
    • Shinjuku-sanchome Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line)
    • 13:30 Arrive Meiji-jingumae Station
    • Harajuku Meiji Jingu
    • Takeshita Street
    • Cat Street
    • 14:30 Depart Omotesando Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 14:40 Arrive Shibuya Station
    • Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • Hachiko Statue
    • Lunch: Marugame Seimen
    • 16:00 Depart Shibuya Station
    • (Keio Inokashira Line)
    • 16:10 Arrive Shimokitazawa Station
    • Shimokitazawa Shimokitazawa South Exit Shopping Street
    • Village Vanguard
    • Shimokitazawa Ichibangai Shopping Street
    • Mikan Shimokita
    • 17:10 Depart Shimokitazawa Station
    • (Odakyu Odawara Line)
    • 17:30 Arrive Shinjuku Station
    • 17:30 Disband: Shinjuku Station

    What Is a Private Tokyo Day Tour Like for First-Time Visitors? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America, both visiting Japan for the first time. They arrived at Narita Airport the previous evening and took a taxi to their hotel. They were staying in Japan for a total of ten days, planning to visit Osaka, Kyoto, Nara after Tokyo, and then return home. They expressed the wish, "We're not interested in the usual tourist spots. We want to go to unique places." They also mentioned, "It's hot back home too, but the air is dry there. Tokyo is very humid, so it's tough." Despite the intense heat, we were fortunate to avoid rain, and the tour proceeded with several breaks along the way. Before departure, they requested, "We'd like to buy a Suica card," and "We'd like to exchange some US dollars in cash." Instead of a Suica, they purchased a 72-hour subway pass, and after exchanging their dollars, we set off. First, following their wishes, we headed to Shinjuku Gyoen. I explained the history of Shinjuku Gyoen. They commented, "The Japanese garden is wonderful. It's amazing to have such a large park in the middle of the city," and "I grow bonsai at home, so this is a great reference." We then moved to Harajuku. At Meiji Shrine, I explained the history of Edo and Tokyo, the Meiji Restoration, and the differences between Shinto and Buddhism. They said, "It's wonderful to have such a green place in the heart of the city." After this, we strolled through Takeshita Street, Cat Street, and Omotesando. They took a liking to the vintage clothing shops on Cat Street and said they would return another day. Next, we moved to Shibuya, crossed the Scramble Crossing, and took a commemorative photo in front of the Hachiko statue. One of the guests mentioned volunteering to rescue lost dogs. They asked, "Is it always this crowded?" and "Why do so many people gather here?" They said they wanted to try "a typical office worker's lunch," so we went to Marugame Seimen. They commented, "It was great to eat cold noodles in this heat." After this, we moved to Shimokitazawa. I explained the recent state of Shimokitazawa. They said, "I looked it up online beforehand, and it seems there are many vintage clothing shops." We toured the shopping street, and they said, "This is exactly the kind of place we wanted to come to." Here too they seemed fond of the vintage shops and said they would return another day. They also made comments such as, "The town is so clean. There's no litter on the ground," "The public toilets are clean and pleasant," and "The subway is clean, quiet, and comfortable. The air conditioning works well too." They also remarked and asked, "There are no homeless people to be seen," and "There are no trash bins on the streets. Why is that?" They also had a question about how to exchange the JR Pass, which I explained before we parted. I saw them off at Shinjuku Station, and the tour concluded.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShinjuku Station～Shinjuku-gyoemmae Station178JPY
    Section 2SubwayShinjuku-gyoemmae Station～Meiji-jingumae Station178JPY
    Section 3SubwayOmotesando Station～Shibuya Station178JPY
    Section 4TrainShibuya Station～Shimokitazawa Station140JPY
    Section 5TrainShimokitazawa Station～Shinjuku Station167JPY
    Total841JPY

    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.

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    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…

  • Nara in One Day: JR Nara Station & Nara-machi : sake tasting etc

    Nara in One Day: JR Nara Station & Nara-machi : sake tasting etc

    Nara Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    September, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:40 JR Nara Station (Start of Tour)
    • 10:10-50 Kofukuji Temple → Ukimido Hall →
    • 11:30-12:10 Kasuga-taisha Shrine walk 5 minutes
    • lunch at Mizuya Chaya walk 5 minutes
    • 12:50 at the foot of Wakakusayama Hill walk 5 minutes
    • 13:00 Todaiji Temple
    • 13:10 Todaiji's Nigatsudo Hall walk 5 minutes
    • 13:30 Todaiji's Shoro Bell Tower walk 5 minutes
    • 13:50-14:30 Todaiji's Great Buddha Hall walk 5 minutes
    • 14:50 Todaiji's Nandaimon (South Great Gate) walk 5 minutes
    • 15:00-20 Yoshikien Garden taxi
    • 15:30-16:20 Nara-machi (Old Quarters of the town): sake tasting etc.
    • walk 20 minutes
    • 16:50-17:05 back at JR Nara Station (End of Tour)

    Title: What Is a Private Day Tour of Nara Like for a Solo Traveler? A Licensed Guide's Report The guest was a solo traveler visiting from North America who traveled to Nara for a one-day private tour. It was a rare case where the guest came all the way to Nara on the morning of the tour. Beforehand, communication was difficult, as emails went unread, and I felt relieved when we finally managed to get in touch by SMS — but that relief was premature. Although the pickup was scheduled for 11:00 at JR Nara Station, at 8:51 a message arrived saying "just boarded the train from Kyoto to Nara," so I hurried over to JR Nara Station by 9:30. In the end, the tour started an hour and a half earlier than planned. The guest mentioned always traveling alone. The rapid speech made it a bit challenging to catch everything, but it was so enjoyable that the tour ended up running an hour longer than scheduled, and I had a truly wonderful time. I feel I was able to get a small glimpse of a different culture. I also learned that SMS functions can differ quite a lot between Japan and North America.

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

    Tour Report by Junichi

    Hello! Thank you for choosing Nara! I bet you’ll love Nara. I specialize in Nara because Nara is the unique place where in one day you can cover the history and religions of Japan from the ancient times to the post war era while enjoying rambling in the UNESCO World Heritage park, having communication with lovely deer, surrounded with the beautiful nature.
    I grew up in Nara, went university in Kyoto, enjoyed teaching at high schools and a university in Osaka. The three former capitals of Japan are home to me.
    After retiring from teaching I began guiding so that I can meet various people from various corners of the world with a variety of cultures and backgrounds. Each time I guide, I find it hugely rewarding because I learn a lot from my guests sharing the history, culture and all that I know about Nara, Kyoto and Osaka.
    I used to be a marathon runner, mountain climber and skier though I am not much of them anymore.
    What I especially recommend is to stay in Nara a couple of days and enjoy communicating with friendly deer while visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Nara in early morning, temples and shrines at night are well worth experiencing.

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    May 16, 2026
    I3520JTcristinat
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Nara with family
    Excellent tour with Junichi!!! Perfect English speaking guide and…

    May 3, 2026
    Maria_J
    Viator review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Enjoyable day in Nara
    We spent 6 hours in Nara with Junichi…

    Apr 11, 2026
    64sandig
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 8hr Private Tour – Osaka DEP. with Licensed Guide
    ????? Absolutely Outstanding ? Junichi Made Our Nara Day…

    Mar 30, 2026
    dpadillachavez
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 8hr Private Tour – Kyoto DEP. with Licensed Guide
    Great day at Nara!
    Best tour on Nara, Junichi…

  • Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    September, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:10 Meet at the hotel. Take the hotel shuttle car to Sounzan. Take the ropeway to Owakudani. Enjoy the black eggs. Take the ropeway to Togendai. 11:25 Take the pirate ship to Hakonemachi Port.
    • Maruyama Bussan, Hakone Checkpoint. After strolling around the shops, via Onshi Park and the old cedar avenue, to Motohakone Port. After viewing a distant view of the Hakone Shrine red torii gate from the shore of Lake Ashi, the guests
    • took a taxi from Hakonemachi Port back to the Hyatt. 15:15 Dismissed.

    What Is a Private Day Tour of Hakone Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Although some of the guests seemed a little tired, perhaps from the long journey, the group set off in good spirits. They also tried the famous black eggs. The group thoroughly enjoyed the natural beauty of Hakone, which is completely different from where they come from in North America. A cruise on Lake Ashi was especially high on their wish list. They also enjoyed the historically rich side of Hakone, including a marquetry secret box from a local shop, the Hakone Checkpoint site, Onshi Park, and the old cedar avenue. At a shop near the checkpoint, they were allowed to draw and hold a replica sword, experiencing the atmosphere of a samurai. At the marquetry shop, the group took a photo together with the shop owner, which I believe made for a wonderful memory. I introduced the correct stroke order for writing kanji, and one of the guests wrote kanji quite well. Prioritizing the safety and comfort of the guests, they avoided the crowded bus from Motohakone and returned by taxi.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassOdawara Station～Odawara Station5,000JPY
    Total5,000JPY

    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

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    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…

  • 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. 09:00 Meet at Hotel
    • 2. 09:30 Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 3. 11:30 Lunch at Gonpachi Azumabashi
    • 4. 12:30 Asakusa (Nakamise Shopping Street, Sensoji Temple)
    • 5. 14:30 Meiji Shrine
    • 6. 15:30 Disband at Hotel

    What Is a Private Tokyo Sightseeing Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report I guided the guests to the main spots based on their requests. The guests seemed to want to talk about themselves rather than listen to my explanations, so I proceeded with roughly a 60:40 balance between speaking and listening. For lunch, since we arrived in Asakusa a little early, I took them to a restaurant I had not visited in a while, and they were very pleased. I had been staying away from that restaurant recently because it is always crowded with groups, but since it was early and still empty, we were able to get in without any trouble. I'm not sure when it changed, but this time payment was cashless only. This is not a problem for guests from overseas, but since there are occasionally guests who prefer to use cash, I think it requires some attention. Toward the end, one of the guests had a sore leg and seemed to find walking difficult, so we skipped Takeshita Street and I saw them off to the Hotel, but overall I believe they were satisfied.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShibuya～Otemachi209JPY
    Section 2SubwayOtemachi～Asakusa178JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa～Meiji-jingumae252JPY
    Section 4TrainHarajuku～Shibuya146JPY
    Total785JPY

    Tour Report by Nobu

    Hi, I am Nobu, a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter (English).
    I have been an English guide in Tokyo area since January 2017.
    Tokyo is a wonderful city, and you may enjoy this city by yourselves.
    Even so, I recommend you go around with a guide, especially if it is your first time visit to Tokyo.
    A good guide will help you to understand about Tokyo and Japan as well as how to use convenient but complicated public transportations more effectively.
    I am glad if I can help you to make your tour more enjoyable.
    I am looking forward to meeting you in Tokyo soon!
    Nobu

    Request Booking

    Jun 2, 2026
    amandavW9846AW
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great Tokyo day trip!
    We had a wonderfull day with Nobu! He…

    May 25, 2026
    Matthew_C
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Nobu was an excellent and…
    Nobu was an excellent and informative guide…

    May 24, 2026
    Diane D
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Pleasant Intro to Tokyo
    Nobu was an experienced and informative guide.…

    Apr 28, 2026
    GrandTour57165664797
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Awesome!
    It was our first visit to Japan. Nobu was very knowledgeable…

  • Kyoto: Nijo Castle & Kiyomizu-dera Temple

    Kyoto: Nijo Castle & Kiyomizu-dera Temple

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    September, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meet at Kiraku Kyoto Aneyakoji
    • 9:40 Nijo Castle
    • 11:30 Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 12:40 Lunch at Gontaro Kinkaku-ji Branch
    • 14:10 Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • 15:10 Sannenzaka ~ Yasaka Pagoda ~ Ninenzaka
    • 16:00 Disband at Kiraku Kyoto Aneyakoji

    What Can You See on a Private Kyoto Day Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report on Nijo Castle, Kinkaku-ji, and Kiyomizu-dera Today I guided a group of guests visiting from North America. As they were interested in Japanese history and culture, we visited Nijo Castle, Kinkaku-ji, and Kiyomizu-dera. Amid the continuing extreme heat, many school-trip students were also visiting Kyoto. Some of the guests enjoyed shopping for souvenirs and purchased something at each place we visited. When I introduced them to a Kiyomizu-yaki pottery shop near Kiyomizu-dera, they bought several pieces they liked. They were very knowledgeable about Japan and well-versed in Japanese cuisine, and I believe they were satisfied with lunch at a restaurant. They took many photos, and I believe they enjoyed the day.

    Click here for more details: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Kaeko

    Thank you very much for choosing JGA experience, and please allow me to briefly introduce myself. I’m Kaeko Tanigawa, your tour guide, and I have been showing tourists from abroad around mainly in Kyoto, Nara and Osaka areas. Every year I’ve guided my guests through those areas for over 80 times. I always try to do my best to help my guests explore and enjoy our unique and attractive locations, and I’ve been lucky enough to receive so many 5-star reviews from the guests I hosted. I’d like to help make your visit to Japan one of the most wonderful memories in your life. I’m really looking forward to seeing you soon. Thank you very much.

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    Jul 25, 2026
    135ulrikh
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Half-day with private guide in Kyoto
    We spent half a day…

    Jul 24, 2026
    J6711TVnancyb
    Tripadvisor review: Japan Guide Agency
    Family Fun Day in Kyoto with young children
    Kaeko Tanigawa was fantastic at helping us create…

    Jul 13, 2026
    elizabethtW414DU
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto Private Tour
    Kaeko was absolutely amazing from start…

    Jul 12, 2026
    johnkE8649IH
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Excellent Kyoto Day Tour
    We had a wonderful experience touring Kyoto…

  • Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    September, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1)meet: cross hotel Kyoto 8:20am
    • 2)Sanjo Keihan→Kinkakuji-michi (bus fare 230 yen)
    • 3)Kinkakuji 9:10～10:00
    • 4)Kinkakuji-michi→Ryoanji-mae (bus fare 230 yen)
    • 5)Ryoanji 10:10～10:50
    • 6)Ryoanji-mae→Omuro Ninnaji (bus fare 230 yen)
    • 7)Ninnaji 11:10～12:00
    • 8)Omuro Ninnaji→Randen Arashiyama Station (train fare 250 yen)
    • 9)Say goodbye at Randen Arashiyama Station 12:40

    Title: What's a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Kinkaku-ji, Ninna-ji, and Arashiyama Since we were able to meet earlier than expected, we managed to catch the 8:30 bus, allowing the tour to progress ahead of the planned schedule. On the bus heading to Kinkaku-ji, a group of school students on a school trip boarded with their teacher. Since one of the guests was around the same age, I struck up a conversation with the students to create an opportunity for them to talk together, and they spent a while chatting with one another. The day was quite hot, and most of the guests seemed a bit worn out. After visiting Ninna-ji, the guests wanted to go to Arashiyama, but since a transfer was required and there was still time, I accompanied them to Randen Arashiyama Station while explaining the sights of Arashiyama and how to return to the hotel from there, and we said our goodbyes at that point. They seemed to really like Kinkaku-ji. I believe they enjoyed the tour.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusSanjo Keihan～Kinkakuji-michi230JPY
    Section 2BusKinkakuji-michi～Ryoanji-mae230JPY
    Section 3BusRyoanji-mae～Omuro Ninnaji230JPY
    Section 4TrainOmuro Ninnaji～Randen Arashiyama Station250JPY
    Total940JPY

    Tour Report by Hiro

    Nice to meet you.
    My name is Hiroki Muramoto, please call me Hiro.
    Hiro in Japanese means large or big. Although I’m neither large nor big, you can call me Hiro. How are you doing ?
    I lived in a city nearby Kobe city. Do you know Kobe ? Kobe is famous for Kobe beef and pearl. If you have not yet had Kobe beef, you should taste the authentic Kobe beef. It is very satisfying taste. But I have recently moved to a city in Kyoto prefecture, so I can be in Kyoto city in about one hour. By the way, I am a family of four. I have a son and a daughter. My son now works in Tokyo. I sometimes go to Tokyo to see him. Tokyo is a huge city, but too crowded, so it seems not to suit me. I seem to be better suited to a small city than a big one. Where do you live in ? How many families do you have ? If you like, please tell me about them. I worked in the quality assurance department of a pharmaceutical company and visited the factories of foreign affiliated companies, so I became interested in foreign cultures and obtained a qualification as an interpreter guide in 2015.

    I have been a guide for about eight years. During that time, I have guided in Kyoto, Osaka, Kobe, Nara, Kochi and so on, although I could do little guiding work between 2020 and 2022 due to COVID-19. However, since last year, my guiding work has been back! So, I am happy to be able to meet different people again. My hobby is travelling, but sadly, I am not in a position to travel abroad easily at the moment due to the very weak yen, and I hope to travel abroad again when the situation eases a bit more.
    How many countries have you been to so far ? Which countries have you liked so far? Another hobby is watching sports – baseball and football. Do you like the baseball ? Do you know Otani, Japanese baseball player ? He has joined Dodgers in Los Angeles this year. I look forward to another successful year for Otani.

    By the way, what interests you in Japan? Food, history, scenery ? As far as tourist attractions are concerned, famous places are too crowded. If you like, I also would like to show you some less crowded places. Are you interested in experiencing something ? If you want to experience something, I can suggest an experience plan for you. If so, please contact me as early as possible. As for food, what kind of food do you like? There are many kinds of delicious food. Of course, you can get good food in fine restaurants, but you can also get good food in downtown restaurants. If you like alcohol, why don’t you try Japanese sake? It can range from light and fragrant to rich in flavor, so you’re sure to find a Japanese sake you like.

    My motto is “Be content with life.” However, I find myself complaining all the time. If you like, please tell me your motto. I want to treat all guests who visit Japan with the spirit of “Treasure every encounter” and guide them so that they can enjoy themselves and have good memories of Japan.
    You only live once (YOLO). So, I also want to enjoy it with you.

    I look forward to meeting you.
    Best regard.

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    Nov 27, 2024
    Julianne_A
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    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    This was a wonderful experience with our guide Hiro. He…

  • 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

    September, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • Kamikura Study　Meeting　9:00
    • Kamikura Shrine　　　　9:00～9:45
    • Kumano Hayatama Taisha　　9:55～10:20
    • From Kumano Hayatama Taisha to Kumano Nachi Taisha　10:20～10:50
    • Daimonzaka Parking Lot　10:50～11:00　
    • Daimonzaka　Sancho～11:00～11:25
    • Seiganto-ji Temple・Kumano Nachi Taisha　11:25～12:20
    • Nachi Falls (Hirou Shrine)　　12:25～13:00
    • Meal　Nebokedo　13:05～14:00
    • From Kumano Nachi Taisha to Kumano Hongu Taisha 14:00～14:50
    • World Heritage Center　14:50～15:00　
    • Kumano Hongu Taisha 15:00～15:20
    • Oyunohara Stroll　15:20～15:50
    • Return from Kumano Hongu Taisha to Kamikura Study 15:50～16:30

    What Is a Private Kumano Kodo Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan on an extended trip. Since the guests had also walked the pilgrimage route of Santiago de Compostela, I mentioned that although the stone steps of Kamikura Shrine are steep, the climb takes only about 15 minutes, so we went up. On the way down, I learned that one of the guests had undergone knee surgery seven years earlier, so the ascent was fine but the descent was difficult. One of the guests was a strong walker and kept getting ahead, so at the halfway point we rested, watching YouTube videos of the Oto Matsuri fire festival before continuing up. The guests were delighted to touch the sacred rock, though it used up quite a bit of energy first thing in the morning. At the Daimon-zaka parking area, the guests said they had been photographing Pokémon manhole covers in various places, so they took a photo of the Nachikatsuura original Pokémon manhole cover as well. We decided to climb only the latter half of Daimon-zaka, and since the guests love photography, they took many photos. We skipped the stairs of Nachi Taisha by using the disaster-prevention road. The guests were very pleased to pass through the sacred tree at Nachi Taisha, writing their wishes in both English and Japanese before passing through. Unfortunately, the three-story pagoda of Seiganto-ji was under construction, so the view was not good. The path to Nachi Falls was downhill, but the guests said this much was manageable and made the effort to descend, so we were able to see the falls up close. (The wheelchair-accessible path to the falls is currently closed, unfortunately.) We were able to tour at a relaxed pace, and since the taxi rides between locations offered a chance to cool off, I think the day was comfortable even though the weather was fine and the temperature rose during the day.

    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.

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    Jun 23, 2026
    Shelley_E
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    Amazing day in Koyasan with Miyuki
    Miyuki was…

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    189mirjamf
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    Grandioser Einblick in eine fremde Kultur
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  • Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    September, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 11:30 Meet up @Hotel Osaka
    • 2. 11:35 @Dotonbori
    • 3. 12:00 @Kuromon Market
    • 4. 13:00 @Osaka Castle
    • 5. 14:30 @Shitennoji Temple
    • 6. 16:00 @Sumiyoshi Taisha
    • 7. 17:00 @Namba Yasaka Shrine
    • 8. 17:30 Disband @Hotel Osaka

    What Is a One-Day Private Osaka Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Thirty minutes before the meeting time, I emailed to say I was waiting in the lobby, and the guests had already arrived. They invited me to a tearoom, where I explained the itinerary in detail before we set off. For the guests, I guided them through Dotonbori while pointing out suitable restaurants, and I also took them to Kuromon Market, which is known mainly for seafood. Since I heard they had only one day in Osaka, I planned a slightly ambitious itinerary, but I believe they were able to experience all the essentials. At the end, they gave me some chocolates from their home region in North America, and we took a commemorative photo together before parting ways.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayNamba～Tanimachi 4-chome820JPY
    Section 2TrainSakuramon～Tanimachi 4-chome200JPY
    Section 3TrainAbeno～Sumiyoshi Toriimae230JPY
    Section 4TrainSumiyoshi Taisha-mae～Osaka Namba240JPY
    Total1,490JPY

    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
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