Category: Uncategorized

  • Kyoto in One Day: Kinkaku-ji & Fushimi Inari Taisha

    Kyoto in One Day: Kinkaku-ji & Fushimi Inari Taisha

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 12:15 Meet beside Kyoto tower
    • 13:00　Kinkaku-ji
    • 15:00　Bamboo forest ＞ Tenryu-ji garden
    • 15:30　Break at Bread and Espresso ＞ river
    • 16:00　Kimono Forest
    • 17:00　Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 17:45　Disband at JR Kyoto Station

    What Is a Private Kyoto Day Trip from Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America, and remarkably, this was a day trip from Tokyo to Kyoto. Along Kinukake-no-Michi from Kinkaku-ji, there is a black-and-white convenience store, so I showed it to them. Since the group required two taxis, the two cars had to travel separately. Although I had instructed the other taxi to go to Torokko Arashiyama, it dropped the guests off at JR Saga-Arashiyama Station instead, so we had to take another taxi to that point to meet up again. It was truly unfortunate. As it was my mistake, I covered the taxi fare myself. This time we had two taxis, but one of them left ahead quickly, and I failed to clearly instruct both cars to stay together, which was my fault. I take it as a lesson learned. We were caught in the rain for a while, but at Inari the rain stopped, and as requested, we arrived at Kyoto Station at 17:45.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto～Kitaoji260JPY
    Section 2BusKitaoji～Kinkakuji-michi230JPY
    Section 3TrainRanden Arashiyama～Randen Tenjingawa250JPY
    Section 4TrainUzumasa Tenjingawa～Sanjo Keihan260JPY
    Section 5TrainKeihan Sanjo～Fushimi Inari220JPY
    Total1,220JPY

    Tour Report by Mimmy

    Bye bye smart phone!! Let’s enjoy Japan without bothering to check up your phone all the time with not AI but a local guide like me. Hi, my name is Mimmy. You may think this sounds like a kitten’s name.
    I use this nickname because it sounds cute and easy to remember. However,
    I actually look rounded, a middle aged woman more like a yellow character of M&Mchocolate, which reminds you of my name easily when you see me.
    I was born in Osaka, went to school in Kobe, went to work in Kyoto and married but still live in Osaka. I am a local, native Osakan. My 3 children are all grown up and live separately except one son. Now I live with one son and a husband in suburbs of the Osaka city.
    I like travelling, walking around the town and anything new.
    I got my guide license in 2017 and started guiding after that. I wasn’t able to work during Covid period but start guiding in 2022 again. I guide Osaka, Kyoto, Nara and Kobe and have experienced more than100 tours including bus tours.
    I would like to tell you about the itineraries I usually have in each area.
    In Osaka, we usually go to Osaka castle, Shinsekai and Dotonbori Namba area.
    I think most important part you should see is Dotonbori Namba in Osaka.
    This place is vibrant , energetic, full of 3D signs and different from any other place in Japan.
    In Kyoto, we cannot see all famous sightseeing spots in one day.
    It will be better to visit each area respectively. I recommend guests who come to Kyoto first time to visit East area, Kiyomizu Temple>Sannenzaka>Ninenzaka>Ishibeikouji>Yasaka shrine> Gion area. This area has an atmosphere of traditional old Kyoto. The most Kyoto like places which suit Kimono. You can rent Kimono in a lot of places around here.
    The second place I recommend you is West area: Golden temple and Arashiyama area where Bamboo forest , Tenryuji temple, mountains and a river. There are several nice gardens in this area. If you want to enjoy the nature quietly, you
    should come here when it is not crowded (Winter is the most quiet)
    In Nara which used to be a capital even older than Kyoto, we visit Todaiji Temple where a huge Buddha is sitting inside of one of the largest wooden hall and you can play with deer everywhere in Nara. Naramachi: a small town in this area is a local place where small interesting shops are.
    In Kobe, a port city, you can visit Japanese Sake breweries, Herb garden and the top of Mt.Rokko for viewing Kobe city. A small China town is there, too.

    Now I bet you want to leave home to explore somewhere else you do not know.
    Not only going to somewhere else, we can help you to do several experiences: making tea, making Japanese sweet, making Takoyaki(food), wearing Kimono, making food samples, attending a tea ceremony, throwing Shriken like Ninja, Using bow and arrow like Samurai, , , ,
    I am very happy indeed if I can help you find things impressive enough and have once in a life time experience during our tour.
    I am looking forward to sharing a good time with you.

    Request Booking

    Mar 24, 2025
    Jennie_N
    Ask for Mimmy
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A must if visiting the first time. Will save…

    Mar 15, 2025
    Eric B
    Wonderful Osaka castle and tour
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 6hr Private Walking Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Mimmy was a wonderful…

    Mar 12, 2025
    williampP2709MA
    Amazing time in Osaka with Mimmy
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Mimmy was an amazing tour guide!…

    Oct 30, 2024
    Niaz_M
    Great choice if you have limited time in Kyoto
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a…

  • Osaka in Half a Day: @ Shitennoji Temple

    Osaka in Half a Day: @ Shitennoji Temple

    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:30 Meet @ W Osaka
    • 11:10-13:00 @Osaka Castle, Hokoku Shrine
    • 13:30-14:10 @ Shitennoji Temple
    • 14;30-14:40 @Harukas Garden
    • 14:55 Disband @Shinsaibashi Station

    Title: What Is a Private Osaka Walking Tour with a Licensed Guide Like? A Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Oceania. One of their purposes for this trip was to broaden their professional knowledge, as one of the guests runs a travel agency. It was an extremely challenging situation due to the intense heat for guests coming from the Southern Hemisphere, but they listened attentively to my explanations and asked many questions about Japan, so our conversation never lapsed along the way. After taking a break at the Hotel, the plan was to attend the Mantoe memorial service held at Shitennoji Temple that evening, but it was cancelled due to a sudden heavy downpour just beforehand. They attended it the following day. The guests asked many questions about Japan, and the conversation never lapsed throughout.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShinsaibashi～Tanimachi 4-chome190JPY
    Section 2SubwayTanimachi 4-chome～Shitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka190JPY
    Section 3SubwayTennoji～Shinsaibashi240JPY
    Total620JPY

    Tour Report by Sachiko

    I’m Sahiko Ogura, Sachiko literally means ‘happy child’, please call me Sachiko or Sachi for short. I was born and raised in Osaka. I’ve been guide for 6 years mainly in Osaka, Kyoto and Nara after having worked far trading company. I love traveling and visited about 30 countries, where I had a great time and experienced something new and exciting. I also like sports, tea ceremony and gardening, I’m growing veritable and flower in my garden. Please let me know your interest and anything what you would like to do during your tour. I’m happy to make an itinerary customized for you.
    I’m looking forward to meeting you and exploring in my home town!

    Request Booking

    Jul 30, 2026
    135ulrikh
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We spent half…

    Jul 12, 2026
    angiegI1120DY
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Great tour! Great guide!
    Sachi was a great guide. She customized…

    Jul 8, 2026
    surferbikerdude1
    We Miss Osaka Already
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Sachiko O. was our guide…

    Jun 23, 2026
    Relax64382499520
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A memorable experience!
    Wonderful experience with an amazing guide! Ms. Sachiko Ogura,…

  • Osaka in One Day: @ Osaka Castle & @ Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine

    Osaka in One Day: @ Osaka Castle & @ Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine

    Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Meeting @ Osaka Station, Hotel Limousine Drop-off Area
    • 9:00-10:40 @ Osaka Castle
    • 11:05-11:45 @ Shitennoji Temple
    • 12:10-13:00 Lunch @ Inside Harukas Tower
    • 13:35-14:10 @ Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine
    • 14:45 Dismissal, Osaka Station, Hotel Limousine Departure Area

    Title: What's a Private Osaka Day Tour Like on a Rainy Day? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. The meeting point was changed from the Hotel to the limousine bus drop-off area at a Hotel near Osaka Station. On the day of the tour, there was some light rain, but after enduring the intense heat in Kyoto and Tokyo a few days earlier, the guests were delighted, calling it the best weather. The start of the tour coincided with rush hour on the Midosuji subway line, and while the guests were surprised at how crowded it was, they stayed positive throughout, treating it as a good experience. Since the next day would be the final day of their trip with plans to stay in Osaka, we postponed the planned visit to Dotonbori to the following day and instead took a relaxed tour around Osaka.

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

    Tour Report by Sachiko

    I’m Sahiko Ogura, Sachiko literally means ‘happy child’, please call me Sachiko or Sachi for short. I was born and raised in Osaka. I’ve been guide for 6 years mainly in Osaka, Kyoto and Nara after having worked far trading company. I love traveling and visited about 30 countries, where I had a great time and experienced something new and exciting. I also like sports, tea ceremony and gardening, I’m growing veritable and flower in my garden. Please let me know your interest and anything what you would like to do during your tour. I’m happy to make an itinerary customized for you.
    I’m looking forward to meeting you and exploring in my home town!

    Request Booking

    Jul 30, 2026
    135ulrikh
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We spent half…

    Jul 12, 2026
    angiegI1120DY
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Great tour! Great guide!
    Sachi was a great guide. She customized…

    Jul 8, 2026
    surferbikerdude1
    We Miss Osaka Already
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Sachiko O. was our guide…

    Jun 23, 2026
    Relax64382499520
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A memorable experience!
    Wonderful experience with an amazing guide! Ms. Sachiko Ogura,…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Shibuya Station & Ginza Station

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Shibuya Station & Ginza Station

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meeting place: all day place shibuya
    • 9:10 Depart Shibuya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 9:50 Arrive Asakusa Station
    • Asakusa Sensoji Temple
    • Asakusa Shrine
    • Nakamise Shopping Street
    • 10:40 Depart Asakusa Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Ueno Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • 11:00 Arrive Tsukiji Station
    • Tsukiji Tsukiji Uogashi
    • Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 12:00 Depart Tsukiji Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • 12:10 Arrive Ginza Station
    • Ginza Ginza Mitsukoshi
    • Ginza Matsuya
    • Ginza Six
    • 13:00 Depart Ginza Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 13:30 Arrive Shibuya Station
    • Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • Hachiko Statue
    • 14:00 Disband: Shibuya Station

    What Is a Private Day Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Tsukiji, Ginza, and Shibuya The guests were visitors from Europe, visiting Japan for the first time. They arrived at Narita Airport ten days ago. After staying in Tokyo for two days, they went to Kyoto. After staying in Kyoto for five days, they returned to Tokyo. They plan to depart from Narita the day after next. They decided to travel to Japan out of an interest in Japanese cuisine and Japanese history. Although it was cloudy, both the temperature and humidity were high, so the tour included several rest breaks along the way. First, we went to Asakusa. I explained "the history of Senso-ji Temple and the history of Edo and Tokyo." There were questions such as "What kind of religion is Buddhism?" "Do all Japanese people believe in Buddhism?" and "Do Buddhists visit temples regularly?" Then we moved to Tsukiji. There were also questions such as "Why are there so many people here?" "There are so many kinds of fish." "Why do they sell not only fish but also meat and vegetables?" and "Do all people in Tokyo come here to buy fish?" The guests purchased a large quantity of "coffee peanuts" and "mochi sweets." After this, they wanted to buy "Japan's finest sweets and matcha," so we went to Ginza. We looked around various places, and in the end they purchased "matcha" and a "tea whisk" at a department store in Ginza. After that, they said they were "tired from the heat," so we returned to Shibuya. We crossed the Scramble Crossing and took commemorative photos in front of the Hachiko statue. There were questions such as "Is it always this crowded?" and "Why do so many people come here?" There were also comments such as "The whole city is clean. There is no litter on the ground." "The public restrooms are clean and pleasant." and "The subway is clean, quiet, and comfortable. The air conditioning works well, too." There was also a question about "what the differences are between Japan, Korea, and China." We parted ways at Shibuya Station.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShibuya Station～Asakusa Station252JPY
    Section 2SubwayAsakusa Station～Tsukiji Station209JPY
    Section 3SubwayGinza Station～Tsukiji Station178JPY
    Section 4SubwayGinza Station～Shibuya Station209JPY
    Total848JPY

    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.

    Request Booking

    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…

  • Onomichi Half-Day Customized Tour

    Onomichi Half-Day Customized Tour

    Onomichi Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • Onomichi Station ~ Arcade ~ Ropeway to Senkoji Temple Observation Deck ~ Tsuzumi Rock ~ Senkoji Temple ~ Kyorakuen ~ Cat Alley ~ Ushitora Shrine ~ Lunch (Hotel Sumiyoshi) ~ Tenneiji Temple ~ Misode Tenmangu Shrine ~ Daisanji Temple ~ Jikanji Temple ~ Hodoji Temple ~ Ikkyu Shrine ~ Komyoji Temple ~ Jikoji Temple ~ Onomichi Station

    What Is a Private Walking Tour of Onomichi Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests really appreciated the charm of Onomichi and showed great interest in its history, the daily lives of its people, and its culture. Since it was their first time in Japan, I explained the differences between temples and shrines, how to pray, and the meaning of shimenawa ropes. While looking at the scenery, I also invited the guests to think about how Onomichi came to be, why there are so many temples, and why it prospered, and I explained the reasons afterward. As a distinctly Japanese culinary experience, the guests were able to grate fresh wasabi themselves and enjoy it with sashimi, which felt special to them and seemed to leave them satisfied. Since it was a little hot and some of the group were feeling worn out, I extended the lunch and afternoon breaks a bit, and they seemed to recover well.

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

    Tour Report by Kazuha

    Hi! I am Kazuha from Onomichi City in Hiroshima Prefecture. Please call me Kazu chan. I was a teacher for 37 years, and retired last year. After that, I traveled a lot, and met a guide who made my travel much more interesting than other travel. It has become a life-time memory. So I decided to be an interpreter guide to help foreign tourists. I would love to help you to make your travel more interesting and exciting!
    I have guided Onomichi, and two World Cultural Heritage sites :Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, and Miyajima. Onomichi is my hometown and the starting point for the Shimanami-kaido to Shikoku Island. It prospered from the 12th century to the 19th century, and was not bombed during the war. So we can still enjoy finding unique Japanese culture while walking. Let’s explore Hiroshima and make your travel special!

    Request Booking

    Jul 26, 2025
    R3976LRjennaw
    A+++
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    We absolutely loved our tour in Hiroshima with…

    Jun 2, 2025
    847lachlanc
    A gem of a merchants town at the foot of stunning mountains by the sea
    Tripadvisor review: Onomichi Half-Day Private Trip…

    May 25, 2025
    Daniel_M
    Religion and Peace
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Our guide (Kazuha) was lovely! Very…

    May 22, 2025
    Georgina B
    Poignant and moving day with helpful guide
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Kazuha…

  • 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

    • 10:50 Meet up @Hotel Kyoto Ekihigashi 11:30@Bamboo Grove Walk 11:40@Nonomiya Shrine 12:30@Togetsukyo Bridge 13:26@Pontocho (Photo Shooting) 14:00@Fushimi Inari Taisha 16:10@Kimono Rental Okamoto 16:50@Kiyomizu-dera 18:40 Dismiss @Kyoto Station

    What Is a Private Kimono and Kiyomizu-dera Walking Tour in Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report I had also reached out the day before, but although the messaging app showed the message had been read, there was no reply. After arriving at Kyoto Station today, while walking toward the meeting point, the guest contacted me to say they had arrived at the meeting point, so we were able to meet and I guided them to the places they wished to see. The guest was staying at a hotel in Osaka, so the meeting point was not their accommodation. When I asked the guest for permission to use photos, they initially declined, but at a kimono rental shop where they wore a yukata, the shop staff took photos and asked whether they could be posted on the rental company's website, and the guest gave permission for the shop staff to photograph them. I then confirmed once more whether the photos could be used, and the guest gave permission, so I am attaching photos of them wearing the kimono. The guest wished to visit Kiyomizu-dera while wearing a kimono, and as a result the tour exceeded six hours. We concluded the guiding once we returned to the kimono rental shop, but the guest wished to return to Kyoto Station together, so we went back together, and since they wanted to eat ramen before returning to Osaka, I guided them to Ramen Koji on the 10th floor of the station building, where the tour ended. It had been raining from last night until around 9:00 this morning, so compared to the heat of the previous days, it was a comfortable day. It rained a little partway through the bamboo grove, but the bamboo acted like an umbrella, so it was not bothersome. It was drizzling when we got off the bus at Kiyomizu-michi as well, but it soon stopped. The guest stopped often to take photos and said they did not need time for lunch, but guiding through three locations took more than six hours.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto～Saga-Arashiyama240JPY
    Section 2TrainArashiyama～Kawaramachi240JPY
    Section 3TrainGion-Shijo～Fushimi-Inari220JPY
    Section 4TrainInari～Tofukuji150JPY
    Section 5BusTofukuji～Kiyomizu-michi230JPY
    Section 6BusKiyomizu-michi～Kyoto Station230JPY
    Total1,310JPY

    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.

    Request Booking

    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.…

  • Kamakura Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kamakura Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kamakura Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:40 Meet at Kamakura Station. After storing luggage and helping to purchase Shinkansen tickets to Kanazawa, take the Enoden to Inamuragasaki. Distant view of Mt. Fuji. Return to Hase, visit Hasedera Temple, shopping, and after viewing the Great Buddha, take the Enoden from Hase to Kamakura. Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine. Shopping along Komachi Street. Return to the station and accompany to Yokohama Station. 16:12 Put them on the Tokaido Line, finish and disband. The customer will go to Kanazawa on the 17:24 Shinkansen departing from Tokyo.

    What Is a Private Kamakura and Enoshima Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were on their second visit to Japan, having traveled through Asia and Tokyo during a stretch of intense heat, so I expected they might be tired, but there was a bit of a breeze today and they were in great spirits. On this trip they were hoping to see Mount Fuji, and since there was a chance it might be partly visible, with the guests' agreement we headed toward Inamuragasaki. The summit was covered in clouds, but it was just barely visible enough to capture in a photo, which was reassuring. It was also their second time in Kamakura, but they enjoyed themselves and were free to do some shopping as well. The guests have strong feelings and a deep connection to Japan, tracing their roots to Yamaguchi Prefecture. After discussing with the guests, we focused thoroughly on sightseeing and shopping, so there was no time for lunch and they only had a single ice cream, but they said they had a wonderful time.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKamakura Station～Inamuragasaki220JPY
    Section 2TrainInamuragasaki～Hase200JPY
    Section 3TrainHase～Kamakura200JPY
    Total620JPY

    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!!
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    Request Booking

    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…

  • Kyoto: @ Kinkaku-ji Temple & @ Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

    Kyoto: @ Kinkaku-ji Temple & @ Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Meet @ TOKYU STAY Kyoto Sakaiza
    • 9:00-9:40 @ Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 10:05-10:50 @ Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
    • 10:55-12:00 @ Iwatayama Monkey Park
    • 12:45-13:30 @ Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 14:00-14:05 @ Marufukuro (former Nintendo site)
    • 14:15 Disband @ TOKYU STAY Kyoto Sakaiza

    Title: What Is a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Kinkaku-ji and Fushimi Inari The guests were a family of three visiting from North America. One of them had been to Japan once before, while the others were visiting for the first time. On this trip, they stayed in Tokyo for a while before coming to Kyoto. It rained from the morning and the sky looked uncertain, but throughout the day there was almost no impact from the rain. The temperature did not rise much, making it relatively comfortable. Before strolling around each site, I explained the differences between shrines and temples while in the car. At Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion reflected beautifully in the Kyoko-chi pond, and the guests were delighted. The garden moss, which had been brown, had also regained its green color thanks to the recent rain and looked lovely. While driving, the driver Mr. Ito was thoughtful enough to pass by Nijo Castle, Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, To-ji Temple, and the Nintendo headquarters, which gave me the chance to explain about each of them along the way. After strolling around Fushimi Inari Taisha, the guests purchased torii-shaped ema plaques and magnets. On the way back, since we had a little time to spare, we stopped by the former Nintendo headquarters "Marufukuro" and I gave them a tour.

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

    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…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Daiba Station & Shimbashi Station

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Daiba Station & Shimbashi Station

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meeting point: GRAND NIKKO TOKYO DAIBA
    • 10:10 Depart Daiba Station
    • (Yurikamome)
    • Shimbashi Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Nihombashi Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Tozai Line)
    • 10:50 Arrive Otemachi Station
    • Tokyo Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • Nijubashi Bridge
    • 11:40 Depart Otemachi Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • Kasumigaseki Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line)
    • 12:00 Arrive Shinjuku Station
    • Shinjuku Kabukicho
    • Omoide Yokocho
    • 12:30 Depart Shinjuku Station
    • (JR Yamanote Line)
    • 12:40 Arrive Harajuku Station
    • Harajuku Meiji Shrine
    • Break: Forest Terrace Meiji Jingu
    • Takeshita Street
    • 13:30 Depart Harajuku Station
    • (JR Yamanote Line)
    • 13:40 Shibuya Station
    • Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • Hachiko Statue
    • 14:00 Depart Shibuya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 14:30 Arrive Shimbashi Station
    • Dismissal: Shimbashi Station Yurikamome platform

    What Is a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on the Imperial Palace, Shinjuku, Harajuku, and Shibuya The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time. (Their home country is in Europe, and they had been living in Asia for the past ten years due to work.) They had arrived at Narita Airport the previous night and taken a taxi to their Hotel. They planned to stay in Tokyo for a few days, then continue to Kyoto and Osaka, staying in Japan for a total of about ten days before returning home. They mentioned they were planning to visit Disneyland the following day. The tour took place during an intense heat wave, so we took several breaks along the way. (They said, "It has been very hot back home this year too, so we are used to it and will be fine.") At the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, we walked a full loop of the grounds despite the extreme heat. I explained about "the history of Japan and the Imperial family" and "the Edo period and the Meiji Restoration." There were questions such as "When was it built as a castle?" and "Why did Edo Castle become the Imperial Palace?" There were also questions such as "Does the Emperor really live inside this Imperial Palace?", "What is the relationship between the Emperor and the Prime Minister?", and "How is the Prime Minister chosen?" We then moved to Shinjuku. In Kabukicho, there was a comment that "it looks somehow different from other parts of Tokyo." We moved on to Harajuku. At Meiji Shrine, I explained the differences between Shinto and Buddhism. We took a break at Forest Terrace. They said, "It is wonderful that there is such a green area in the center of the city." After that, we moved to Shibuya, crossed the Scramble Crossing, and took commemorative photos in front of the Hachiko statue. There were questions such as "Is it always this crowded?" and "Why do so many people gather here?" They also commented, "The whole city is clean. There is no litter on the ground," "The public restrooms are clean and pleasant," and "The subway is clean, quiet, and comfortable. The air conditioning works well too." I saw them off at Shimbashi Station, where we parted ways.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherDaiba Station～Shimbashi Station325JPY
    Section 2SubwayShimbashi Station～Otemachi Station178JPY
    Section 3SubwayOtemachi Station～Shinjuku Station209JPY
    Section 4TrainShinjuku Station～Harajuku Station146JPY
    Section 5TrainHarajuku Station～Shibuya Station146JPY
    Section 6SubwayShibuya Station～Shimbashi Station178JPY
    Total1,182JPY

    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…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Nezu Shrine & Asakusa Sightseeing Cruise

    Tokyo in One Day: Nezu Shrine & Asakusa Sightseeing Cruise

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00　Meet at the hotel (there was a request to start one hour earlier)
    • 9:40　Nezu Shrine
    • 10:20　Stroll from Nezu to Yanaka
    • 11:15　Arrived at Ueno Station, but there was a request: "I'm tired, so please cancel Ameyoko and Kappabashi Kitchenware Street and just go to Asakusa."
    • 11:40　Asakusa Sensoji Temple
    • 12:20　Lunch
    • 13:45　Asakusa Sightseeing Cruise
    • 14:20　End of guide

    Title: What Can You See on a Private Tokyo Tour of Nezu, Yanaka, and Asakusa? A Licensed Guide's Report [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guided a multi-generational group visiting from North America on the final day of their 16-day trip through Japan. The group had started their Japan tour in Yokohama and Kamakura. Because they had not been able to visit Fushimi Inari Taisha in Kyoto, we visited Nezu Shrine and experienced walking through its rows of torii gates, which some of the guests especially loved. Afterward, we strolled from Nezu to Yanaka, exploring streets with a nostalgic, old-fashioned atmosphere, and the guests purchased cat-themed accessories. The plan was to move on to Ueno and guide them through Ameyoko and the Kappabashi kitchenware district, but they requested, "We're tired, so we'd like to just do Asakusa for the rest." I guided them around Senso-ji Temple, and since it was their final day, they said, "We'd like to eat sushi," so we had a sushi lunch. Finally, the group enjoyed a mini-cruise in Asakusa, and the tour came to an end.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayGinza～Nezu180JPY
    Section 2TrainNippori～Ueno150JPY
    Section 3SubwayUeno～Asakusa180JPY
    Total510JPY

    Tour Report by Shuji

    My name is Shuji, meaning “Excellent Manager” in English. I was born in Hiroshima 1952. I have 2 children and 3 grandchildren.
    After graduating Kyoto Univ. I joined Mitsubishi-UFJ Bank, Osaka Branch where I met my wife who was a master of Englsih, so I started studying English.
    The bank allowed me to go to Columbia Graduate business school in New York and got MBA Degree there. I worked in London and Manchester Branch.
    During staying in U.K., I was introduced by BBC and Financial Times News Paper about my achievement there. I was selected as a personal assistant and interpreter for the President of the Bank.
    I made many business trips with him to overseas countries. I experienced as an interpreter for meeting late Henry Kissinger and the President of Citi. Corp.
    I changed the job to ORIX corporation, there I was promoted to a Board Member. When the company had acquired Dutch company, I was a member as an accountant to check the Dutch company’s statements of accounts.
    My hobbies are cooking, singing a song, playing tennis & golf, enjoy seeing arts especially opera & musical, travel. I am also busy with taking care of grandchildren. I passed Government Licensed Guide Exam. in 2016. After I retired in 2017, I started guide job as a part timer. So far, I accomplished guide job more than 500 times.
    My area coverage is from Tokyo, Hakone, Kamakura, Mt. Fuji to Kyoto, Nara, Oaka, Hiroshima. I am also able to guide Tea Ceremony, Maiko/Geisha, Sushi Making, Calligraphy, Sumo, Samurai, etc. I can speak excellent English. My knowledge is very wide and deep about not only sightseeing places but Japanese History, Culture, Religion, Daily Life. I know many foreign countries and people. I love talking with all kinds of people including babies with interesting humor.
    By the way, I look young for my age of 74.

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    Jul 16, 2026
    salomons666
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto fun
    Amazing with our guide Shuji very kind and acknowledge

    Jul 15, 2026
    P9099TXkennethr
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    A great day
    A great day in the Company of mr. Shuji.

    Jun 28, 2026
    A
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    AmyfromPlano
    Shuji is the best! Once we booked this tour, he reached…

    Jun 22, 2026
    yeseniag981
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 6hr Private Walking Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Osaka Tour
    Our tour guide Shuji was amazing. He was…