Category: Uncategorized

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 10:07 Meet @ Kyoto Station Thunderbird arrival platform 2. 10:30 @ Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine 3. 12:05 Kinkaku-ji Temple 4. 13:10 @ Bamboo Grove Walk 5. 14:30 @ Gion (from the car window) 6. 14:50 @ Kiyomizu-dera Temple 7. 16:00 Disband @ Chishakuin Kaikan

    Title: What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour by Taxi Like During Typhoon Season? A Licensed Guide's Report Due to the impact of a typhoon, the tour was rescheduled to one day earlier than originally planned. I waited on the platform where the train arrived, so we were able to meet without any problem, and I also met the taxi driver without any issue, and we started the tour. Since the guests were concerned about rain, they wanted to finish visiting all the sites before it started raining, so we carried out the tour without a lunch break. I decided the order of the sites the guests wished to visit. Under the original plan for the 28th, there were many places to visit, so we were scheduled to finish in front of Kiyomizu-dera after the guided tour there. However, on this day, since the luggage was in the vehicle, we ended the tour at the accommodation. Without a lunch break and viewing Gion from the car window, we finished right at the time limit. Because it had rained the previous evening, it was not hot enough to worry about heatstroke, but the guests mentioned that it was humid and warm. They asked many questions about Japan, about religion, and about Kyoto, so our conversation was lively. The guests came from Europe, and since English is an official language there, communication in English was no problem.

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

    Tour Report by Keiko

    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.

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    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.…

  • Tochigi in One Day: Shinkyo Bridge & Tobu Nikko Station Customer

    Tochigi in One Day: Shinkyo Bridge & Tobu Nikko Station Customer

    Nikko Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:20 Meet at JR Nikko Station
    • 10:32　Board the bus
    • 10:40　Shinkyo Bridge
    • 11:00　Rinnoji Temple Sanbutsudo・Gomado
    • 11:45　Toshogu Shrine
    • 13:00　Futarasan Shrine
    • 13:15　Lunch at Sanraku
    • 13:50　Shopping at Fujiya Tourist Center
    • 14:07　Board the bus
    • 14:15　Kanmangafuchi Abyss
    • 14:50　Kanaya History Museum
    • 15:26　Board the bus
    • 15:50　Tobu Nikko Station　Customer shopping
    • 16:00　Disband at JR Nikko Station

    Title: What Is a Private Nikko Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on the World Heritage Area Body: The guests were visitors from North America. The original plan was to arrive at 9:28, but due to yesterday's heavy rain, train services were significantly delayed, and the guests arrived in Nikko around 10:20. Because of the late arrival, I adjusted part of the itinerary while consulting with the guests. Since the guests were interested in Japanese culture and history, we focused on the World Heritage area. Both listened attentively to the explanations. As the guests walked very lightly and quickly, I made sure not to fall behind on the way to Okunoin. Due to the rain the night before, the water of the Daiya River was unusually murky and its volume was high, so Kanmangafuchi Abyss was especially powerful, and the guests were captivated by the view of the river. We had originally planned to visit Tamozawa Imperial Villa, but due to time constraints and the guests' reactions during the explanations, I changed the plan and guided them to the Kanaya Samurai House. The phrase "samurai house" seemed to appeal to them, and they looked at the old Japanese samurai residence with great interest. Since the trains had been heavily disrupted on the way there, I went to Nikko Station at the end to check the return service status while the guests were shopping. I was told that services had returned to normal in the afternoon, but just to be safe, the guests took a train one earlier than planned. I also informed them that the Shinkansen reservation could be changed, and explained that if they did not change it, they would have an hour at Utsunomiya Station, so I suggested ways to spend that time before we parted ways. As the guests were interested in shopping, I recommended the station building. Although we started late, we were able to cover roughly the usual course, and the guests appeared satisfied.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusJR Nikko Station～Shinkyo Bridge220JPY
    Section 2BusNishisando Chaya～Kanmangafuchi Abyss200JPY
    Section 3TrainKanaya History Museum～Tobu Nikko Station350JPY
    Total770JPY

    Tour Report by Yumi

    Hello! My name is Yumi. The Nikko area, Nasu area, in Tochigi Prefecture, and Aizu and Shirakawa area in Fukushima prefecture, where I will be guiding you, are not only surrounded by beautiful nature in all four seasons but are also full of historical attractions. Nikko, in particular, is a great place to learn about the culture and history that has shaped Japan to this day. In order for you to truly enjoy your day, I am flexible to your wishes and will prepare your day to be a great day. Because I am a local guide, you will surely see some sights that are not in the guidebooks. Is local food one of your favorite parts of your trip? I am also a sushi-making instructor for foreigners, so food is one of my specialties. I am also a certified sake navigator. Why don’t you come and enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with me?

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    Jul 1, 2026
    laine164
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A wonderful day!
    We had a wonderful time exploring Nikko.
    Our friendly…

    Apr 7, 2026
    V2097LInickd
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great Guide Yumi Highlights Nikko on walking tour
    Our 16,000 step tour…

    Apr 4, 2026
    O4367MVkarenv
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Fantastic day in Nikko
    We had a fantastic day with Yumi. She…

    Nov 10, 2025
    Salutory
    A fascinating tour with a friendly and knowledgeable guide
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our guide, Yumi…

  • Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • AM8:30 Hotel Meet-up
    • AM9:15 Fushimi Inari Shrine
    • AM10:45 Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • AM12:00 Gion
    • AM12:30 Nishiki Market Dismissal

    What Is a Private Kyoto Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Gion and Nishiki Market The guests were visitors from Europe on their first trip to Japan, and they seemed more troubled by the humidity than by the heat. They expressed a wish to see bonsai, but I did not have a good answer to offer as I had no particular place in mind. Looking back, I have been asked about bonsai by past guests as well, which made me keenly aware that it is an art form known throughout the world. I felt the need to know places where one can view bonsai. Since the guests asked about geisha, I added an unplanned stroll through Gion. As luck would have it, we encountered two maiko in the area. I explained that they were still in training before becoming geisha, and that they struggle with tourists chasing after them. The guests said they liked Kyoto more than Tokyo. They seemed to have worked up an appetite from all the walking, so we parted ways at Nishiki Market at a good time.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto～Inari150JPY
    Section 2TrainInari～Tofukuji150JPY
    Section 3BusTofukuji～Kiyomizu-michi230JPY
    Section 4BusKiyomizu-michi～Gion230JPY
    Total760JPY

    Tour Report by Naoki

    I am Naoki Nakatani. I live in Osaka.
    I started tour guide from 2023 after 40 years
    work experience in Japanese manufacturing company. I am currently teaching Japanese as volunteer staff to foreign residents who live in my community. I have 11 and half years work experience in overseas office and I had interacted with people of foreign countries for a long time enjoying business and friendship with them. My guide experience is still short but I will provide my best service to the guests. I am in a position to prepare the itinerary if guests request and to send any information for the guest to make plan before visit to Japan.

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    Jul 11, 2026
    Trevor_F
    Viator review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    4 hour Private Tour
    Naomi was our guide and did a…

    Jun 6, 2026
    May_O
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Wonderful time in Kyoto
    We had a terrific time with Naoki. He…

    May 1, 2026
    Sanfrancisco820
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Choose Naoki – you will have a great day!!
    Naoki is an…

    Mar 28, 2026
    Tanya_R
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great guide
    Naoki was very kind and knowledgeable He knew the best…

  • Nara Day Trip from Kyoto: Customized Tour

    Nara Day Trip from Kyoto: Customized Tour

    Nara Day Trip from Kyoto: Customized Tour, Licensed Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Meet at Kyoto Station Central Gate　8:45 Board JR bound for Nara　9:35 Arrive at JR Nara Station　10:00 Nara Park　10:15 Todaiji Temple　11:45 Lunch　12:45 Kasuga Taisha Shrine
    • 14:00 Naramachi Nigiwai-no-Ie　15:15 JR Nara Station　15:37 Board JR bound for Kyoto　16:20 Arrive at Kyoto Station, tour ends

    Title: What Is a Private Nara Day Tour Like for a Visiting Group? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. One of the group had a grandfather from Oita. As a typhoon had been forecast to approach the previous week, we moved the departure time one hour earlier. However, the typhoon was moving slowly and there was no impact on the weather. When we boarded the JR train, one of the guests seemed tired and worn out, so I felt that we would not be able to walk around too much. However, upon encountering the deer, that guest suddenly became energetic and walked well throughout the rest of the tour with almost no problem. At first I suggested Nara Park, Todai-ji Temple, Naramachi (Nigiwai no Ie), and Kofuku-ji Temple (the Treasure Hall), but since everyone was tired, we ended up not going to Kofuku-ji. Even so, the guests thoroughly enjoyed each of the places we visited, so it worked out well. Everyone seemed particularly interested in the deer, taking plenty of photos at both Todai-ji Temple and Kasuga Taisha Shrine. From tomorrow they are going to Beppu in Kyushu. The photo was taken at Kasuga Taisha Shrine.

    Click here for more details: Nara Day Trip from Kyoto: Customized Tour, Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto～Nara720JPY
    Section 2Free PassJR Nara Station～JR Nara Station600JPY
    Section 3TrainNara～Kyoto720JPY
    Total2,040JPY

    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…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Arashiyama Bamboo Grove & Gion

    Kyoto in One Day: Arashiyama Bamboo Grove & Gion

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet up @ Miyako City Kintetsu Kyoto Station
    • 11:00-12:00 @ Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
    • 12:55-13:45 @ Nijo Castle
    • 14:15-14:45 Lunch @ Kamukura Gion Shijo Station Branch
    • 14:50-15:55 @ Gion
    • 16:00 Disband @ Shijo Hanamikoji

    What Is a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like for Guests from North America? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were from North America and had visited Japan several times before, but this was their first time in Kyoto. Since one of the guests preferred a slower walking pace, I made sure to use elevators and escalators whenever possible for going up and down, and I was careful about our walking speed. One of the places the guests originally hoped to visit was the Kyoto Imperial Palace, but it happened to be closed that day, so I informed them and suggested going to Nijo Castle instead. After strolling through the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, they bought one shaved ice at a shop along Nagatsuji Street and shared it together. Since they wanted ramen for lunch, I took them to a ramen restaurant near Gion-Shijo Station. After exploring Gion, we caught a taxi near Shijo Hanamikoji and parted ways on the spot.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto Station～Saga-Arashiyama Station240JPY
    Section 2TrainRanden Arashiyama Station～Randen Uzumasa-Tenjin Station250JPY
    Section 3SubwayUzumasa-Tenjingawa Station～Nijojo-mae Station260JPY
    Section 4BusNijojo-mae～Shijo-Keihan-mae230JPY
    Total980JPY

    Tour Report by Kaz

    Hi, thank you very much for choosing the JGA tour!

    My name is Kazuhiro Yoshida, please call me “Kaz”.

    I am an English-speaking National Licensed Tour Guide in Japan, and have been guiding mainly in Kyoto and other Kansai areas since April 2023. I have guided over 1,000 tours in total so far, and I am on my way to becoming one of the best English-speaking tour guides in Japan.

    I have a great passion to show people from all over the world, the deep histories and cultures of Japan, the country I truly love.
    I am focused to take you out on a tour that will become one of the best highlights of your entire trip.

    I am glad to have an opportunity to be your guide, and I hope that we can explore many hidden gems of Japan together!

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    May 19, 2026
    498stephenq
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    An enjoyable visit
    Really enjoyed our visit with Kaz. Friendly, informative, and…

    Apr 11, 2026
    V5131MFjodieh
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kyoto morning tour with Kaz
    Kaz (Kazuhiro) guided my family in historic…

    Oct 14, 2025
    Scenic61154406959
    Great Historical Perspective
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Yoshida was excellent, he had a great knowledge of…

    Sep 29, 2025
    Jea L
    Excellent Tour of Kyoto with Kaz
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kaz was an excellent tour…

  • Sapporo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Sapporo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Sapporo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 9:55 Meet up @Hotel
    • 2. 10:07 Sapporo Clock Tower
    • 3. 10:20 Odori Park
    • 4. 10:40 Nijo Market
    • 5. 11:00 Tanukikoji
    • 6. 11:40 Shiroi Koibito Park
    • 7. 12:50 Lunch @Maruyama Class
    • 8. 13:55 Okurayama Ski Jump Stadium
    • 9. 15:20 Susukino
    • 10. 15:50 Disband @Hotel

    What Is a Private Sapporo Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The group was able to walk without difficulty, even managing stairs comfortably, which allowed us to move smoothly between each destination. They were pleased with Sapporo's comfortable climate compared to other regions of Japan. Since the guests expressed a wish to experience the atmosphere of Susukino, at the end of the tour I guided them around the commercial facilities in Susukino and gave them enough information so they could return to the Hotel to rest and then head out again on their own. I feel I was able to plan the itinerary based on the guests' own wishes, and the guests seemed to finish the tour satisfied.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayOdori Park Station～Miyanosawa Station290JPY
    Section 2SubwayMiyanosawa Station～Odori Park Station290JPY
    Section 3BusOkurayama Ski Jump Stadium～Maruyama Koen Station Bus Terminal210JPY
    Section 4SubwaySusukino Station～Odori Park Station210JPY
    Total1,000JPY

    Tour Report by Tom

    I was born and raised in Hokkaido and have been a resident of Sapporo for over 30 years. I have been actively involved in guiding tourists around the scenic spots of Hokkaido, primarily focusing on Sapporo. Even before becoming a licensed interpreter guide, I engaged in volunteer activities to assist and guide foreigners, providing me with valuable opportunities to delve into the rich culture and history of Hokkaido.
    Hokkaido is renowned for its exceptional culinary scene, and I am well-versed in gourmet information. I believe I can offer an excellent experience by guiding individuals through the highly acclaimed food experiences that Hokkaido has to offer.

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    Apr 22, 2026
    Agent PT A
    Tripadvisor review: Sapporo 6hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Super Sapporo in April with Tom.
    Tom was kind…

    Feb 10, 2026
    Alan_C
    Very enjoyable and well…
    Viator review: Sapporo 6hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Very enjoyable and well worth it. Our…

    Sep 24, 2025
    saratW9816BN
    Tour up to the Moiwa mountain and lots more
    Tripadvisor review: Sapporo 6hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    We’ve had…

    Sep 2, 2025
    roxannerW1499FK
    Great experience!
    Tripadvisor review: Sapporo 4hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    We had a wonderful city tour with Tom in…

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 8:00 Meeting Coffee House Café (near Oyado Hachi)
    • 2. 8:40 Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • 3. 10:40 Sannenzaka・Ninenzaka・Ishibei-koji
    • 4. 11:30 Maruyama Park・Yasaka Shrine
    • 5. 12:10 Chion-in Temple (Sanmon Gate, Miedo Hall, Seishido Hall, Hojo Garden, etc.）
    • 6. 13:40 Shoren-in Temple
    • 7. 14:30 Lunch (Hatsune Sushi)
    • 8. 15:15 Dismissal (Oyado Hachi)

    **Title:** What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like in Summer? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America, making their long-awaited first trip to Japan. The tour was arranged to coincide with a birthday celebration. As background to their visit, the guests had a strong interest in Japan as "a country at the forefront of advanced technology while also possessing a unique and ancient history and culture." Throughout the tour, they enjoyed asking questions such as why torii gates are painted red, why the fox is a symbol of Inari shrines, and how Buddhism and Shinto coexist. However, under the intense summer heat, and after energetically climbing the very steep approach to Chion-in Temple, the guests expressed a wish to take a shower after lunch, so we went directly to the hotel by taxi. In front of the hotel entrance, the guests repeatedly commented on how fulfilling and satisfying the day's tour had been, and we parted with smiles and a handshake (15:15). (As round-trip taxis were used, no claim for guide transportation expenses is necessary.)

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

    Tour Report by Masa

    Born, raised and married in Kyoto, I am Masaaki Tanaka started English-speaking licensed guide since 2008, guiding mostly those English-speaking inbound tourists in Kyoto, which is my home base, and in Osaka (where I woked so long time until my retirment) and Nara and in other Kansai areas incl. Kobe, Koyasan, etc. If allowed, I can say I am somewhat experinced in Japanese history (especially in its culture). When young, I lived and worked for some 11 years in the Middle East, which areas, accordingly, I am still quite familiar to . My hobby includes : seeing Noh Play and Kabuki, hearing Musics in general (Beethoven, Beatles, Jazz & Rock’n Rolls as well as Japanese classicals), seeing the paintings/artworks in general, playing the piano (all time at beginner’s level, though), playing the guitar and, when younger, I enjoyed skiing and business golf. Also, I am, since my childhoo, a great fan of Tigers in Japan’s pro-base ball. I love cats (keeping now an old female ‘Chee’ chan) , and certainly my wife Tokuko as well.

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    Jul 30, 2026
    amydJ3030YT
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Private Kyoto tour with a licensed guide and separate driver…

    Mar 20, 2026
    moisessG5827VE
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Masaaki Tanaka was the best tour guide ever!
    Masaaki Tanaka was an…

    Jun 16, 2025
    896nataliex
    Amazing Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Masaaki, was an excellent tour guide and wealth of knowledge…

    Apr 23, 2025
    Simon S
    Enjoyable and informative
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Full Day Tour from Osaka with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    The service was friendly…

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Nijo Castle & Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Nijo Castle & Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00 Meeting point: JR Kyoto Station, Shinkansen Central Gate
    • 11:30 Sightseeing ①: Nijo Castle
    • 12:30 Sightseeing ②: Kyoto Imperial Palace
    • 13:30 Sightseeing ③: Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 14:40 Sightseeing ④: Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 15:00 Dismissal: Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

    Title: Can You Visit Kyoto's Nijo Castle, Kinkaku-ji, and Fushimi Inari in a 4-Hour Private Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America, currently traveling in Japan. Early that morning they had taken the Shinkansen from Tokyo to Kyoto, and they planned to return to Tokyo in the evening, so they had chosen a "4-hour course (10:30–14:30)" (the meeting time was later changed to 11:00). In our advance communication about the itinerary, the guests wrote, "We are not interested in shopping. We would like to learn a lot about the history and culture of Kyoto," so their purpose for sightseeing in Kyoto was extremely clear. I therefore proposed "Nijo Castle → Kyoto Imperial Palace Park and Palace → lunch → Kinkaku-ji," but the guests replied, "We would really love to see Fushimi Inari as well — is that possible?" I explained, "As I proposed, a maximum of three places is the limit for a 4-hour course. If you really want to go to Fushimi Inari, we would have to either cancel Kinkaku-ji or move lunch to after the tour ends." In the end, they agreed with my proposal. On the day, the guests appeared at the agreed central exit of the Shinkansen station about ten minutes earlier than scheduled, and we reconfirmed the itinerary. There, the guests still seemed unable to give up on Fushimi Inari, pressing me with, "Isn't there any way to make it work?" I responded, "If you skip lunch during the tour time and have it after the tour, I can manage to guide you to Fushimi Inari — would that be all right?" To this the guests replied, "Of course that's fine. Thank you for being so flexible." The thought crossed my mind, "In this continuing heat, water is always available, but will everyone be okay on an empty stomach (myself included)?" but since the guests seemed energetic, I decided to change the itinerary as requested. Once the tour began, the guests moved very smoothly and were very cooperative with time management. As for transportation, we used the subway, city buses, and JR trains — almost all air-conditioned environments — so we could travel very comfortably. When the walking time to stations and stops is not too long, I was reminded that public transportation truly has its advantages in the heat. As I had understood from our advance communication, the guests had a strong interest in Japanese culture and history, listened closely to my explanations, and asked many questions. At times, I added quizzes such as, "Why is the fox the symbol of Fushimi Inari?" and we were able to enjoy the tour. It was guiding once again in intense heat, but I was able to have an enjoyable tour with a close and curious group.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKyoto～Nijojo-mae260JPY
    Section 2SubwayNijojo-mae～Imadegawa220JPY
    Section 3SubwayImadegawa～Kitaoji220JPY
    Section 4BusKitaoji Bus Center～Kinkakuji-michi230JPY
    Section 5TrainEnmachi～Inari200JPY
    Total1,130JPY

    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…

  • Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • PM14:00 Meet at Hotel
    • PM14:30 Fushimi Inari
    • PM16:00 Kiyomizu-dera
    • PM19:30 Disband at Dotonbori

    What Is a Private Kyoto-to-Osaka Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe. While talking about the highlights of the Kansai region during our Kyoto sightseeing, they said they wanted to have dinner in Osaka that evening. Since I am from Osaka, I decided to go with them. We had planned to visit Gion after Kiyomizu-dera Temple, but we were caught in a sudden downpour. We took shelter for about 30 minutes, but as it showed no sign of stopping, we skipped Gion and, soaking wet, headed from Kawaramachi to Osaka. When I took them to Dotonbori, an event was being held and the guests were astonished by the huge crowd. Walking around under the blazing sun, getting caught in a sudden downpour, and an unplanned trip to Osaka — it was quite a demanding day, but I am sure the guests forgot their fatigue and enjoyed the night in Osaka.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto～Inari150JPY
    Section 2TrainInari～Tofukuji150JPY
    Section 3BusTofukuji～Kiyomizu-michi230JPY
    Section 4BusKiyomizu-michi～Shijo Kawaramachi230JPY
    Total760JPY

    Tour Report by Naoki

    I am Naoki Nakatani. I live in Osaka.
    I started tour guide from 2023 after 40 years
    work experience in Japanese manufacturing company. I am currently teaching Japanese as volunteer staff to foreign residents who live in my community. I have 11 and half years work experience in overseas office and I had interacted with people of foreign countries for a long time enjoying business and friendship with them. My guide experience is still short but I will provide my best service to the guests. I am in a position to prepare the itinerary if guests request and to send any information for the guest to make plan before visit to Japan.

    Request Booking

    Jul 11, 2026
    Trevor_F
    Viator review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    4 hour Private Tour
    Naomi was our guide and did a…

    Jun 6, 2026
    May_O
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Wonderful time in Kyoto
    We had a terrific time with Naoki. He…

    May 1, 2026
    Sanfrancisco820
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Choose Naoki – you will have a great day!!
    Naoki is an…

    Mar 28, 2026
    Tanya_R
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great guide
    Naoki was very kind and knowledgeable He knew the best…

  • Kanagawa: Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine & Hokokuji Temple

    Kanagawa: Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine & Hokokuji Temple

    Kamakura Zen Temples & Gardens Tour with Licensed Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet @Hotel, board hired car
    • 9:45 @Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine
    • 10:45 @Hasedera Temple
    • 11:30 @Kotokuin (Great Buddha of Kamakura)
    • 12:15 Lunch @Minemoto Main Store
    • 13:15 @Komachi Street
    • 13:40 @Kakuonji Temple, with matcha
    • 14:10 @Hokokuji Temple
    • 15:00 Disband @Hotel

    What Can You See on a Private Day Tour of Kamakura? A Licensed Guide's Report At the request of one of the guests, who wished to show Kamakura—a town visited over 30 years ago—to the group, [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guided them to Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, Hasedera Temple, and the Great Buddha of Kamakura. In addition to explaining the difference between shrines and temples, I described the Japanese history of the Kamakura shogunate period, which the guests greatly enjoyed. They were impressed by the straight Wakamiya-oji avenue and the view of Yuigahama Beach from Hasedera Temple, but it seemed that the figure of the Great Buddha left the strongest impression. After lunch at a soba restaurant on Wakamiya-oji avenue, we took a short walk along Komachi-dori Street. Since the morning had been spent at busy, crowded spots, in the afternoon I guided the guests to the quieter Kakuonji Temple and Hokokuji Temple. After being overwhelmed by Kakuonji Temple, associated with Hojo Yoshitoki, they enjoyed matcha in the bamboo grove of Hokokuji Temple. Although it was a short time, they were very pleased to explore the temples and shrines of Kamakura, each with its own distinct atmosphere.

    Click here for more details: Kamakura Zen Temples & Gardens Tour with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Seky

    Hi friends, I’m Seky, a tour guide in Tokyo, but I cover all over Japan, namely from Hokkaido to Kyushu. I have lived overseas for more than 15 years in total, such as US, UK, Singapore and others, and enjoyed local culture there. Back in Japan, I wish I could help travelers to Japan enjoy Japanese culture, and this is why I became a tour guide.
    In Tokyo, my favorite places are Shibuya, Harajuku, Asakusa, and if you are interested in fish market, I’d love to take you to the world largest Tuna auction and/or if you are sports lovers, I’ll go to ball games (baseball) too.

    Request Booking

    May 8, 2025
    J
    jeanne_c
    Sell was very…
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Sell was very knowledgeable and willing to talk…

    Mar 2, 2025
    Joe_F
    Excellent Custom Tokyo Tour
    Viator review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour, customized to my interests, Edo period…

    Mar 1, 2025
    R2911ISjoef
    Excellent Custom Tours, Great Guides, Reasonable Prices.
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour with a friendly…

    Oct 27, 2024
    Jennifer_G
    Great day touring Tokyo !
    Viator review: Private Tokyo Tour with Government Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 7 persons)
    We had…