Category: Uncategorized

  • Kanagawa in One Day: From Sounzan to Owakudani & Hakone Venetian Glass

    Kanagawa in One Day: From Sounzan to Owakudani & Hakone Venetian Glass

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at the hotel
    • 10:00 From Sounzan to Owakudani
    • 11:25 From Togendai to Motohakone by pirate ship
    • 12:00 Hakone Shrine
    • 13:30 Hakone Venetian Glass Museum
    • 15:10 Tour ends at the hotel

    What Is a Private Hakone Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Owakudani and Mount Fuji The guests were a group visiting from North America. The tour began with an unexpected situation: due to some mix-up, a planned two-night stay at the same inn could not be arranged, so they had to check in again at a different inn. Because some of the guests used a cane and a walker, I chose a route that relied on elevators and avoided stairs as much as possible. For the guests, this trip was the realization of a long-held dream to visit Japan. Today they were especially moved to see Mount Fuji from Owakudani, and they seemed truly delighted. At the end, I took them to the Hakone Glass Forest Museum. The weather was fine, and inside they were even able to listen to a concert. They highly praised the experience, saying the views and atmosphere exceeded their expectations. By a remarkable coincidence, it turned out that one of the guests and I had once worked very close to each other in the same field, so the mood throughout the tour was warm and relaxed from beginning to end.

    Hello and welcome to Tokyo!

    I have been working for business with American companies for many years. I have many experiences guiding customers from around the world in Japan and taking Japanese customers to the USA and Europe.

    I now have a national license as a guiding interpreter, and I want to introduce the unique gigantic city of Tokyo and the traditional Japanese culture, which is not shown in the guidebooks, to people worldwide who are interested in it. In addition, I want to introduce various Japanese foods you can enjoy only in Japan.
    Unique experiences such as the Sumo Training Viewing and Tea Ceremony are optionally available.
    Depending on your preference and itinerary, I can guide you in Tokyo, Kamakura, and Hakone so that you can enjoy your time in Japan.

    Jul 26, 2026
    Kevin_B
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Tokyo Tour
    Highly recommend this tour for first time…

    Jun 22, 2026
    Ashish_L
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Best Tour for a Short Visit
    Atsushi-san was an incredibly well-researched and…

    May 27, 2026
    jackie m
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Walking tour of Tokyo
    Our guide was really interesting and had…

    Apr 9, 2026
    Lindsey_W
    Viator review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our guide, Atsushi, was…
    Our guide, Atsushi, was great! He met…

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • Hotel 9:30 → Sanjusangendo 10:00 → Kinkakuji 13:30 → Hotel 15:30

    Title: What's a Private Kyoto Tour Like With a Licensed Guide? A Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America on their first trip to Japan. The original plan included Sanjusangendo, Kinkaku-ji, and Fushimi Inari, but we ended up visiting only Sanjusangendo and Kinkaku-ji, as time ran short after searching for supplies at a pharmacy and taking shelter from a thunderstorm at Kinkaku-ji. At Sanjusangendo, the guests were deeply moved and enjoyed it very much. Just as we entered Kinkaku-ji, a thunderstorm broke out, and we took shelter for about 45 minutes. Even during that time, there was no shortage of topics to discuss, such as the writing of the Japanese language, and the guests thoroughly enjoyed themselves. At the end, they told me they had a wonderful time.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKiyomizu-michi / Kyoto City Bus~Museum Sanjusangendo-mae / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 2BusMuseum Sanjusangendo-mae / Kyoto City Bus~Kyoto Station / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 3TrainKyoto~Enmachi180JPY
    Section 4BusNishinokyo Enmachi (JR Enmachi Station) / Kyoto City Bus~Kinkakuji-michi / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 5BusKinkakuji-michi / Kyoto City Bus~Nishinokyo Enmachi (JR Enmachi Station) / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 6TrainEnmachi~Kyoto180JPY
    Section 7BusKyoto Station / Kyoto City Bus~Kiyomizu-michi / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Total1,510JPY

    Hello, my name is Taka Sakai.
    I was born and brought up in Osaka until I graduated college.
    I worked for a chemical company for more than 30 years and was in charge of overseas marketing.
    There was also an opportunity to be assigned to the subsidiary in the US.
    I experienced a lot, traveled a lot both on business and my own during that time.
    I have been conducting tours as the certified guide mainly in the Kansai Area since 2017.
    Thank you very much for your interest in Japan.
    It is a great honor for me that I can accompany and support your new experiences here.
    I look forward to seeing you then.

    Thank you

    Taka Sakai

    May 13, 2026
    Alice_o
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A Perfect Day in Kyoto.
    We had a perfect day in Kyoto.…

    May 1, 2026
    Don_W
    Viator review: Kobe 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Awesome to explore new countries
    We toured the gardens, temples and the…

    Apr 12, 2026
    Abha_N
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Amazing guide
    We had an exceptional experience with our private guided tour…

    Mar 30, 2026
    reneferraris2001
    Tripadvisor review: Private Nara Tour with Government Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Osaka Departure)
    Nara experience
    We had a great experience on…

  • Tochigi in One Day: Sightseeing at Toshogu & Sightseeing at Shinkyo

    Tochigi in One Day: Sightseeing at Toshogu & Sightseeing at Shinkyo

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11 :00     Meet the guest at JR Nikko Station
    • 11:00~11:05  Purchase Toshogu admission tickets at Tobu Nikko Station
    • Move to Tamozawa Imperial Villa by bus
    • 11:20~12:00 Sightseeing at Tamozawa Imperial Villa
    • 12:00~12:30  Lunch
    • Move to Toshogu on foot
    • 12:50~14:50 Sightseeing at Toshogu
    • 14:50~15:30 Sightseeing at Rinnoji Temple
    • 15:30~16:00 Sightseeing at Taiyuin
    • Move to Shinkyo by bus
    • 16:20~16:30 Sightseeing at Shinkyo
    • Move to JR Nikko Station by bus
    • 17:00     Disband at JR Nikko Station

    What Does a Private Nikko Day Tour Look Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guests were a group visiting from North America. Their interests were Japanese history, culture, and gardens, and they asked me to choose the actual places to visit. Since they did not mind walking and kept a brisk pace, I first guided them to the Tamozawa Imperial Villa and explained Japanese residential architecture. After having lunch at the tea house there, we went to Toshogu Shrine, the highlight of the day. Having first shown them the simple beauty of Japanese architecture, I then showed them the lavishly decorated Toshogu Shrine, so the guests were very moved by the contrasting beauty. Here I focused on the period from the Edo era to the Meiji era, and also spoke about ways of thinking unique to Japan. Since the guests were also interested in gardens, I guided them to Shoyoen Garden at Rinnoji Temple, and afterward showed them the golden Buddhist statues of the Sanbutsudo Hall. As we still had time, we were also able to visit Taiyuin. The four places we visited today each have a completely different atmosphere, so I believe the guests enjoyed today's Nikko tour without getting bored.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassTobu Nikko Station~Tamozawa Imperial Villa600JPY
    Section 2Free PassNishi-Sando Entrance~Shinkyo0JPY
    Section 3Free PassShinkyo~Tobu Nikko Station0JPY
    Total600JPY

    I am a licensed guide based in the Nikko area of Tochigi Prefecture, with a passion for sharing the depth and beauty of this remarkable region.
    In particular, I take great pride in introducing the magnificent World Heritage area, home to Toshogu Shrine, Futarasan Shrine, Rinnoji Temple, and the iconic Shinkyo Bridge. The rich history, spiritual atmosphere, and masterful craftsmanship found there are truly inspiring.
    But Nikko has much more to offer beyond the World Heritage zone. The region is uniquely spread across three different elevation zones: the central town area, the Lake Chuzenji area at higher altitude, and the remote Yumoto Onsen area in the mountains. Each of these areas offers a different charm—from historic sites and sacred spaces to scenic lakes, waterfalls, and hot springs.
    However, due to the area’s wide geography, limited public transit options, and seasonal congestion, even navigating efficiently within a single area can be challenging without local knowledge.
    That’s why local expertise is essential. With in-depth knowledge of Nikko’s layout, transportation network, and crowd patterns, I help my guests make the most of their time, while focusing on the area that suits their interests best.
    I don’t just recite what’s written in guidebooks—I offer deeper insights rooted in Japanese history, religion, and culture. From the legacy of Tokugawa Ieyasu to the spiritual symbolism behind shrine architecture, I aim to provide meaningful and memorable experiences.
    If you’re looking to discover the real Nikko, from its iconic landmarks to hidden gems, I’d be honored to guide you.

    Jul 27, 2026
    Onno_P2000
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Very interesting and joyful day trip with Taka
    We…

    Jun 30, 2026
    Rolando_A
    Viator review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A fantastic day!
    We had an amazing day. Our guide was Taka.…

    Jun 25, 2026
    N8851CTrebeccaf
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We cannot recommend Taka highly…

    Jun 21, 2026
    kevin L
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Amazing personal tour where you get to choose or have a…

  • Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • AM 09:00 Tour starts from the hotel
    • Travel by foot to Kazuemachi Chaya District
    • AM 09:15-10:45 Stroll through Kazuemachi and Higashi Chaya District, visit Shima, Utasu Shrine
    • Travel by bus to Kenrokuen-shita
    • AM 11:15- PM12:15 Kanazawa Castle Park: Hishi Yagura, Gojikken Nagaya, Hashizumemon Tsuzuki Yagura, visit Gyokusen'in
    • Travel by foot to Nagamachi Samurai District, via Oyama Shrine
    • PM 12:30-13:00 Stroll through Nagamachi Samurai District, visit Takada Family Residence, Ashigaru Museum
    • Tour ends

    What Is a 4-Hour Private Walking Tour of Kanazawa Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from Europe. Tours arranged through a travel agency usually involve a request to cover the Higashi Chaya District, Kenrokuen Garden, Kanazawa Castle Park, and the Nagamachi samurai district quickly within four hours. In this case, the guests planned to visit Kenrokuen Garden on their own, so I was able to introduce each of the other spots at a relaxed pace. We finished with a visit to the Ashigaru (foot soldier) Museum in Nagamachi before parting ways, and I believe the guests enjoyed the tour.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusHashiba-cho/Hokuriku Railroad Bus~Kenrokuen-shita・Kanazawa Castle/Hokuriku Railroad Bus220JPY
    Total220JPY

    Hello , My name is Hideharu Yoshino . Just call me” Yoshi” .
    I have been involved with many foreign Business partners through my business life for 38 years ,
    Based on my work experience , I would like to try my best to make you comfortale and Happy fruitful times during your stay in Japan .
    Not only giving you basic tourist information about famous sightseeing spot , also I would enjoy to give you the back ground inofrmation in my word.
    ” Once in a lifetime encounter ” Let’s enjoy with me Miracle time to be picked up from 6 billion in somewhere Japan!

    Jul 25, 2026
    Ann W
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Incredible tour, one of the highlights of my…

    Jul 18, 2026
    Geert73
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    A Well-Organized and Informative Tour of Kanazawa
    We, a…

    Jul 15, 2026
    G5010ZVmelodys
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Local Food & Tea Culture Tour with Licensed Guide
    Number one guide for personalised touring of Kanazawa
    Our…

    Jul 11, 2026
    rikkes490
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Rigtig god guidet tur
    Rigtig god oplevelse og gode forklaringer

    とても良いガイドツアーでした。
    とても良い体験でした。説明も分かりやすく、とても良かったです。

  • Hyogo in Half a Day: @ Nunobiki Herb & @ Hamafukutsuru Ginjo Studio

    Hyogo in Half a Day: @ Nunobiki Herb & @ Hamafukutsuru Ginjo Studio

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Meet @ JR Shin-Kobe Station
    • 09:15 @ Nunobiki Herb Garden
    • 11:30 @ Kitano Ijinkan District (Moegi House, Weathercock House, Kitano Tenmangu Shrine)
    • 12:30 @ Hamafukutsuru Ginjo Studio
    • 13:30 Dismiss @ JR Sannomiya Station

    Title: What's a Private Kobe Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Kitano and Sannomiya The guests were visitors from North America. They moved through the day smoothly and seemed very interested in Japan, asking many in-depth questions throughout the tour. At the herb garden, they greatly enjoyed the corner where personality is judged by which scents one likes and dislikes. In the Kitano Ijinkan foreign residences area, they savored a soft serve ice cream that had once been selected as the best in Japan by a newspaper, and were very satisfied. They also visited with great interest a Starbucks located in the same Kitano Ijinkan area, which is said to be the only shop in the country housed in a building designated as an Important Cultural Property. I presented them with a handmade drawstring pouch, which they were delighted to receive. Since they planned to return to their hotel afterward, I guided them to the rapid service train departing from JR Sannomiya Station, and there we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainSannomiya~Uozaki200JPY
    Section 2TrainUozaki~Sannomiya200JPY
    Total400JPY

    Dear my guests,

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Kiyomizu-dera & Gion

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Kiyomizu-dera & Gion

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Meet at Hotel
    • 9:00 Fushimi Inari (Fushimi Inari → Kiyomizu-dera by taxi)
    • 10:50 Kiyomizu-dera
    • 12:15 Sannenzaka & Ninenzaka
    • 12:40 Yasaka Shrine
    • 13:00 Gion
    • 13:30 End at Gion

    What's a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like for Overseas Guests? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe. We could not get in touch until the day of the tour, so we decided on the destinations after meeting in person. Since they wanted to visit Arashiyama on their own the following day, I suggested Fushimi Inari, Kiyomizu-dera, and Gion. As the weather was hot, I also suggested traveling by taxi to save time. There were a great many school-trip students, so walking was a bit challenging. We took breaks along the way and enjoyed strolling around the Higashiyama area. Since they wanted to have lunch at an okonomiyaki restaurant, I saw them there and concluded the tour.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKarasuma Oike~Kyoto220JPY
    Section 2TrainKyoto~Inari150JPY
    Total370JPY

    Hi I am Kunihiro ARAKAWA, National government licensed tour guide.
    Please call me first name Kuni.
    My original city is Nagoya, but I lived in Tokyo for 20 years,
    and also lived in London and Paris for work.
    Now I live in Kyoto city. I moved here because I love Kyoto.
    I like taking photos and also sell my own photos on website.
    I’d love to take memorable photos for you at great photo spots.
    I also like history and gourmet food.
    I’d love to introduce some local recommendations.
    I’ll ask your request and create your special tour.
    Please feel free to let us know your thoughts.
    Looking forward to meeting you !

    Kuni

    Jul 18, 2026
    M2443VKandrewl
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Excellent guide and support
    Kuni-san was an excellent guide and…

    Jun 9, 2026
    Gail M
    Tripadvisor review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Kyoto Sights; Private Guide & Driver
    The…

    Jun 5, 2026
    Rick_S
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    An afternoon in Kyoto
    We had a great time exploring Kyoto. Our…

    May 16, 2026
    sydneybA4751LA
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    10/10 private tour of Kyoto!
    Kuni was amazing as our private tour…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Kiyomizu-dera Temple visit & Kennin-ji Temple visit

    Kyoto in One Day: Kiyomizu-dera Temple visit & Kennin-ji Temple visit

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Hotel Meet(@KIORI Collection Shinmachi)
    • 8:00-8:20 Travel (Taxi: Hotel → Kiyomizu-dera Temple)
    • 8:20-9:40 Kiyomizu-dera Temple visit
    • 9:40-10:10 Stroll along Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka (including Coffee Break/toddler meal break)
    • 10:10-11:00 Kodai-ji Temple visit
    • 11:00-11:30 Entoku-in Temple visit
    • 11:30-11:45 Travel (on foot; Entoku-in → Kennin-ji Temple)
    • 11:45-12:30 Kennin-ji Temple visit
    • 12:30-12:45 Travel (on foot; Kennin-ji → Restaurant/Ain Sopher Journey @Shinkyogoku)
    • 12:45-13:30 Lunch (@Ain Sopher Journey)
    • 13:30 With the customer's consent, we ended the tour a little earlier in front of Nishiki Market and said goodbye to the customer.

    Title: What's a Private Kyoto Walking Tour Like with a Licensed Guide? A Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. They had requested that destinations be limited to places accessible on foot with ease of movement, and we ultimately visited Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Kodai-ji Temple, Entoku-in Temple, and Kennin-ji Temple. At Kiyomizu-dera Temple, we toured using the accessible route, and at Kodai-ji Temple, Entoku-in Temple, and Kennin-ji Temple, we visited on foot after leaving items at the entrance. We also set aside time during the tour for a break. As the temperature rose considerably during our movements, it likely became a somewhat demanding tour for the guests. For lunch, I took them to a vegetarian restaurant as requested. It was a tour that required a good deal of care and attention throughout.

    My name is (Mr.)Michiharu Aioi and I worked at Electronic Manufacturing Company (Panasonic) for more than 40 years in charge of overseas sales.
    I learned a lot in these 40 years and now I would like to contribute to the promotion of mutual understanding with foreign countries being involved in tourism busines utilizing my long experience in my previous company. I will do my best to make each trip very fruitful for each foreign visitor.
    As for my language ability, in addition to English, I can speak Spanish which I used in my job and I can communicate with Chinese people with intermediate level. Finally It is my great pleasure if my activity could work in the mutual understang with foreign visitors. Thanks a Lot !

    Jul 19, 2026
    Wander35832177180
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Kyoto temple tour
    Our Kyoto guided tour (Aioi Michiharu) was a…

    Jul 16, 2026
    Abby_M
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour. Highly recommend
    Michi our guide was excellent!…

    Jul 13, 2026
    Javier P
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto gems
    Michi was incredibly courteous and informative.…

    Jul 13, 2026
    Beth_D
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Excellent Tour and Guide
    Michi was an excellent tour guide! He…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 08:50 Meet@SHIBUYA 109
    • 2. 09:10 Travel∶Subway
    • 3. 09:50 Stay@Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 4. 11:05 Travel∶Subway
    • 5. 11:25 Stay@Ueno Park
    • 6. 12:30 Lunch@Obon de Gohan
    • 7. 13:25 Travel∶Subway
    • 8. 13:40 Stay@Asakusa
    • 9. 14:35 Stay@Kappabashi Kitchen Town
    • 10. 15:00 Disband@Tokyo Metro Tawaramachi Station

    Title: What's a Full-Day Private Walking Tour of Eastern Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests' accommodation was originally a hotel inside the Disney Resort area, and I had been uncertain about where to set the meeting point. However, since it had been changed to an apartment in the Dogenzaka area of Shibuya, that issue was resolved. Because meeting in front of SHIBUYA 109 would save more time, we ended up gathering there. Before setting off, the guests purchased a PASMO card at Shibuya Station. Originally, I had planned to guide them around the western side of Tokyo, but on this day they expressed a wish to explore the eastern side, so I reorganized the itinerary on the spot. It was fortunate that it was a Tuesday, which allowed me to guide them through the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace. In Ueno, a flea market was being held in front of Bentendo, so I allowed a little extra time for shopping. In Asakusa, we had a little time left toward the end, so I took the guests to Kappabashi Kitchen Town before parting ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShibuya~Otemachi (Tokyo)210JPY
    Section 2SubwayOtemachi (Tokyo)~Ueno180JPY
    Section 3SubwayUeno~Asakusa180JPY
    Total570JPY

    Hi. My name is Masafumi Miyazaki. Please call me “Sam”. I am a government-licensed guide.
    I was born in Tokyo and was raised in the suburbs of Tokyo called Tama area. When I was in university, I majored in western dramas, so I am good at playing like an actor.
    I like reading, listening to the music, and walking. I belong to several walking clubs, and sometimes I guide the members around Tokyo.
    One of my strengths as a guide is that I know well about kombu, Japanese kelps. In December every year, I work at a traditional kombu shop in Tsukiji Fish Market. At that shop, I learned a lot of things related to kombu or other ingredients for washoku. I can explain the different characteristics of them to you.
    Also, I am familiar with Japanese flowers and plants. If you stroll around a Japanese garden with me, I am sure you will be able to enjoy beautiful flowers and unique plants in every season.
    I look forward to meeting you. Thank you.

    Jul 21, 2026
    G848SWmaribelm
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Tour of Tokyo sights was great!
    The tour experience…

    Jul 16, 2026
    Cezary P
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour of Tokyo!
    Sam, was outstanding! Showed…

    Jul 9, 2026
    Michael_C
    Tokyo tour
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour with a wonderful guide -…

    Jun 18, 2026
    David_W
    Viator review: Tokyo Tsukiji Food & Culture 4hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Fish Market Tour
    Great tour. Got to see…

  • Kyoto in One Day: ~ Visit Ginkaku-ji & ~ Visit Kyoto Imperial Palace

    Kyoto in One Day: ~ Visit Ginkaku-ji & ~ Visit Kyoto Imperial Palace

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:30 Meet @ Hotel Kyoto
    • 09:15 ~ Visit Ginkaku-ji Temple
    • 10:15~ Stroll around the Philosopher's Path
    • 12:15~ Visit Shimogamo Shrine
    • 13:00~ Visit Kyoto Imperial Palace
    • 14:00 Dismissal @ Kyoto Imperial Palace Garden

    What Is a Private Walking Tour of Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Ginkakuji, the Philosopher's Path, and Shimogamo Shrine The guests were visitors from North America who had arrived in Kyoto from Tokyo the previous evening. Some of the guests had previously visited Japan and Kyoto, while others were coming for the first time. They planned to stay in Kyoto before continuing on to Osaka and Hiroshima. Since they left the entire itinerary up to me, I chose a route from Ginkakuji Temple along the Philosopher's Path to Shimogamo Shrine and the Imperial Palace. The guests thoroughly enjoyed the quiet walk around the Shishigatani area and expressed their appreciation for my recommending this route. Along the way, our conversation flowed easily as we talked about recent topics in North America and Japan, and we spent a very enjoyable time together.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainSanjo (Kyoto Prefecture)~Demachiyanagi240JPY
    Total240JPY

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

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

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

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

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

  • Kyoto in One Day: Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto & Gion

    Kyoto in One Day: Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto & Gion

    Tour Itinerary

    • 12:00 Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto
    • 12:40 Nanzen-ji Temple
    • 13:40 Lunch
    • 14:40 Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 16:00 Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 17:30 Gion
    • 17:50 Gion Kobu Kaburenjo Theater

    What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Nanzenji, Kinkakuji, and Fushimi Inari I guided guests visiting from Oceania. This was my first time guiding guests from Oceania, and there were moments when the pronunciation was difficult to catch, which made communication challenging. When we first met, one of the guests seemed to be in a less than cheerful mood, so I felt a little nervous at first, but at Nanzenji Temple they enjoyed the magnificent buildings and beautiful scenery, and they sat for a while admiring the dry landscape garden in particular. After that, we had a light lunch at a nearby cafe, and the conversation took on a warm and relaxed atmosphere. At Kinkakuji, they enjoyed the Golden Pavilion, though they seemed a little tired on the stairs along the way. Next, at Fushimi Inari Taisha, they nearly gave up on the stairs leading to the Senbon Torii, but with some encouragement we continued and reached the inner shrine. On the way down, they were deeply moved by the beauty of the Senbon Torii, and I was even asked to take photos, which was unusual for a guest who does not normally like being photographed. After that, since we had some time to spare, we headed to the Gion Kobu Kaburenjo and I was showing them around the Gion Corner and other areas when one of the guests mentioned that a wallet might have been lost. I contacted the places we had visited, but it could not be found, and they were disheartened. In the end, however, the wallet was found inside a bag belonging to one of the guests, and the matter was happily resolved. Afterwards, they kindly offered to treat me to a drink at the hotel as a token of thanks, but due to my return arrangements I politely declined, saw them off as they left by taxi, and ended the tour. Although there were a few unexpected moments, we were ultimately able to finish the tour with smiles.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainEnmachi~Inari200JPY
    Total200JPY

    Hello! My name is Umi. I was born and raised in Kyoto, and I still live here today.

    I have always loved traveling. When I visit another country, I enjoy learning about its history, culture, and way of life from local people. Talking with locals helps me understand a place much better than simply visiting famous sights. That’s why I became a tour guide.

    Through my tours, I hope to help visitors gain a deeper understanding of Japan. In addition to its beauty and traditions, I am also happy to talk about modern life in Japan. My goal is for my guests to leave Japan with wonderful memories and a deeper appreciation of the country.

    I’m looking forward to meeting you!

    Jun 29, 2026
    U3009CHlaurad
    Kyoto 4 Hour walking Tour
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Umi was a great tour guide, very…

    May 9, 2026
    Adventurer745194
    Lovely intro to Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a lovely morning guided by Umi.…

    Apr 30, 2026
    jonathangG3501FZ
    4 hour private tour in Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Umi was a lovely tour guide…

    Apr 27, 2026
    Jennifer_S
    Wonderful, thoughtful guide
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Umi was absolutely wonderful. She…